Congestion 'Endemic' on British Roads

Despite its relatively low car ownership rates, Britain has one of the worst public transit systems and the most congested roads among industrialized nations, according to a a new report.

1 minute read

January 18, 2008, 6:00 AM PST

By Michael Dudley

"Britain's transport infrastructure is 'not fit for purpose', according to the Policy Exchange think tank. It said Britain has the most congested roads, the fewest motorways and "some of the worst public transport" among leading industrialised countries. But in a report, it said "relatively small" road charging on congestion hotspots would soon fund improvements."

"The future cost of congestion is likely to exceed the current £20bn a year and the problem is now endemic, affecting not just large cities but also motorways and small towns, Policy Exchange said. Policy Exchange chief economist Dr Oliver Hartwich said: 'Britain's transport infrastructure is, quite simply, not fit for purpose and unable to meet the needs of a modern country.'"

"[Automobile Association] president Edmund King said motorists were being 'hit from all sides' with 'record fuel prices, record motoring tax levels and record congestion'."

"'Despite relatively low car ownership, we have more cars per motorway mile than any of the other EU countries and the worst congestion,' he said."

FULL STORY: British roads 'unfit for purpose'

Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in BBC

Transportation United Kingdom

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