The steady increase of traffic in the UK has led to more congestion, pollution and stress. Reduction is the only long-term solution. This means people needing fewer journeys and having access to safe, cheap and convenient alternatives to the car. Simply building more roads, car parks and airports is not only expensive and environmentally damaging, it produces more traffic, which in turn contributes to climate change.
Gridlock
Gridlock is becoming a common sight as bus fares rise and services are cut. The first Local Transport Plan (LTP) failed to reach targets, leading to a 5% cut in central government funding for 2006/7. The Council continues with its failing traffic management policies – road widening and traffic light systems – while the new LTP is preparing to remove the traffic reduction target altogether. It is difficult to promote alternatives to cars when more and more city centre car parks are built and the local rail network is neglected. This does not help solve the problems of congestion and climate change; nor does it promote regeneration or better health.
