Cambridge – RHA welcomes reports that Congestion Charge plans will be dropped

The RHA has welcomed reports that Cambridge City Council will scrap plans for a congestion charge in the city.

HGVs and coaches could have faced £50 charges to enter the city.

The reports come after the RHA has campaigned for the proposal to be dropped.

Chris Ashley, RHA Policy Lead, Environment & Vehicles, said:

“These reports are welcome in light of cost-of-living challenges – a rethink of the approach is needed.

“We all want better air quality and less congestion, but we must find ways which avoid causing financial problems for communities and businesses.

“We’re committed to working with public authorities to put in place workable solutions that clean up our environment. This should include greater investment in the infrastructure needed to power zero emission commercial vehicles and, from central government, tax breaks such as a fuel duty rebate linked to emissions reduction.”

Last month the RHA urged policy makers to learn lessons from the London ULEZ and clean air zones and better support the transition to cleaner fuels.

Mr Ashley said policies like ULEZ did not allow a second-hand market of affordable, compliant vehicles to develop.

“We need to learn these lessons as we continue the journey to net zero. We must think differently – there are other ways to improve air quality.

“The rules must be attainable for everyone – we’ve got to make it easier for people and businesses to move away from fossil fuels.”

The RHA recently launched its ‘Net Zero Forum’ bringing together a members and stakeholders to produce a regular roadmap that can guide action on the road to net zero.

Join the #NetZeroForum conversation on social media.