Should the Western Extension of the Congestion Charging Zone be Scrapped?

Yesterday was the day of the consultation to discuss whether

London mayor Boris Johnson would be scrapping the western extension of the congestion

charging zone as originally planned.

As outlined back in May Boris Johnson wanted to scrap the

western extension as well as increase the daily charge for the remaining zone

by £2, taking it from £8 to £10. Should the scrapping of the western extension

go ahead, as expected, then the final day of charging will be 24 December.

Critics and local residents from Pimlico, Notting Hill, Kensington and Chelsea have

hit out at this proposal though because it will increase traffic in the area.

It has been reported that the removal of the western extension would also cost TfL

£55m a year.

Ken Livingstone first introduced the western zone in 2007

when he was mayor because London has the worst air quality levels in the

country and ranks among the worst in Europe. Boris Johnson has been quoted as

saying, “West London never wanted the western extension and it is right that

residents there can now tell us whether this Christmas should see the end of

it. The central zone still plays a useful role but it has to be administered

more fairly and straightforwardly, which is why I'm delighted the proposals

include changes that should mean no one need ever be fined again.”

What are your views on the scrapping of the western

extension? This coincides of course with the mayor’s new bicycle scheme, which

he expects to play an important role in making a difference. Will it? Let us

know what you think of it all.