STATE GOVERNMENT TOLD CONGESTION CHARGING RIGHT FOR CARS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Thursday, 10 July 2003 10:00

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Congestion charging should be introduced for cars entering the Sydney CBD during peak times, to match existing congestion pricing for rail commuters and all the extra funds used to increase public transport services, by doubling the rate of new infrastructure building the Total Environment Centre (TEC) has told the State Government.

TEC Urban Campaigner Mr Leigh Martin said "Rail users for travelling during peak periods already pay congestion prices. We need to discourage people from taking the car and provide funds for new public transport infrastructure and services".

In a submission to Transport Services Minister Michael Costa's Ministerial Inquiry into public transport infrastructure and funding TEC has urged the Government to introduce congestion charging on vehicles entering the Sydney CBD to reduce traffic congestion and fund public transport improvements.

TEC also did not rule out progressive increases in public transport fares. TEC is calling on the Government to provide a massive boost to public transport funding to bring forward capital works on new rail lines, light rail and bus transitways. Congestion charging for vehicles - already being used in London to fight traffic chaos and fund public transport - would provide a major source or revenue to fix Sydney's transport woes.

"Just like London, Sydney is choking with worsening air pollution and traffic chaos from ever increasing car use. We need at least a doubling of the annual capital works budget for public transport and reduction in spending on new roads, which are the real causes preventing public transport from playing a major role", Mr Martin said.

TEC has also called on the Government to seek revenue for public transport improvements from developer levies in new release areas and major urban redevelopment projects, redirection of funds from the roads budget, and to join forces with other State Governments to campaign for Federal funding. "

The public are crying out for improved services and new transport infrastructure. We need a bold approach and a willingness to embrace new ideas to fund desperately needed improvements. The alternative is worsening air pollution and transport chaos for years to come", Mr Martin said.

Public Transport Funding Submission (2003)

For further information

Contact
:
Leigh Martin - Urban Campaigner
Phone
:
61 2 9299 5599
Email
:
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WWW
:
http://www.tec.org.au/