Traffic levels rise by 12 per cent

Date article online: 18/01/2008

Traffic levels in Greater Manchester have risen dramatically over the past decade, according to Government figures.

Department for Transport data shows since 1997 traffic levels had risen by 12 per cent on the region’s roads, in line with the England average.

The largest increase in England took place in Northamptonshire, where traffic levels rose by a fifth. Other large rises were recorded in North Yorkshire, Gloucestershire, Durham and Northumberland.

Norman Baker MP, who uncovered the figures, said it showed the Government was failing to deal with climate change and congestion.

He said: "This considerable increase in road traffic levels provides black and white proof of the Government’s decade of failed transport policies.

"They say they are serious about tackling climate change, but everywhere except London traffic levels keep on rising, with congestion accordingly becoming more and more of a problem. Perhaps this is no surprise given that the cost of motoring has continued to go down under this Government while the cost of public transport has rocketed."

In 1997, John Prescott, then the Deputy Prime Minister, said: "I will have failed if in five years’ time there are not many more people using public transport and far fewer journeys by car. It’s a tall order but I urge you to hold me to it."

But central London was the only place in England where traffic was lower in 2006 than it was a decade ago.

The figures come days after the Government announced Greater Manchester would be given £1.5 million to help finalise its bid for a controversial pay-as-you-drive scheme.

Transport Minister Rosie Winterton said the cash was to allow authorities to develop their proposals for easing traffic congestion.

Plans include charging motorists as they drive as well as overhauling public transport to encourage drivers out of their cars, but are not expected to be introduced until at least 2012.

The money does not mean the bid will be successful, Ms Winterton warned. Funding is largely dependent on producing a road pricing or congestion charging scheme. It could include introducing road pricing on the 15 main routes into Manchester, including from Rochdale.