Congestion charging and road safety

As congestion charging beds down in central London with barely a hitch, we talked to two road safety professionals operating in the front line – in boroughs directly affected by the charge. We asked whether, at this very early stage, they think congestion charging has any implications for road safety on their patch.

First we talked to Camden’s Belita Clahar. "While it is too early to assess the effects of congestion on road safety casualties, I can tell you that traffic levels within the congestion charge zone are significantly down - by around 17 per cent," Belita says. "Lower traffic volumes could potentially result in fewer casualties - but if the reduction in congestion leads to higher speeds then the reverse outcome could result.

"Should this be the case then Camden, in liaison with TfL (Transport for London), will need to address the situation," Belita adds.

Camden has already received funding from TfL to install complimentary measures in areas outside the congestion charge boundary in order to deter and limit the negative effects of displaced traffic. Work to improve pedestrian facilities at key junctions is also ongoing."

Matthew Collins from Corporation of London identifies a potential problem through an increase in traffic speed and the number of powered two wheelers. "We have seen a significant drop in traffic levels, especially cars and vans," he says. "However there is an increase in powered two wheelers and cycles due, of course, to the exemption in congestion charging for these vehicles.

"We are concerned that the reduction in traffic may lead to an increase in speeds, which in turn could lead to a rise in the severity of casualties, especially to PTW's. To pre-empt this we are organising a ‘Scooter Safe’ event in the Guildhall, London.

For further information about this story please contact belita-clahar@camden.gov.uk or matthew.collins@corpoflondon.gov.uk.

Click here for a fuller report on Scooter Safe.