Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has commissioned a review of the various ‘anti-car’ schemes that have been implemented across the country.
In an interview with The Sunday Telegraph, the Prime Minister expressed his commitment to addressing the concerns of motorists, highlighting that a significant majority of the population heavily relies on their vehicles.
In response to growing concerns about Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), which restrict car access on certain roads, the Prime Minister has tasked the Department for Transport with conducting a thorough review.
The goal is to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of these schemes and determine whether they inadvertently contribute to congestion in other areas and obstruct the movement of delivery vans and emergency vehicles.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper tweeted: “As I said earlier this month since I became Transport Secretary there has been no new funding for LTNs.
“We are all about giving people more choice on how they travel, not banning you from driving your car.”
Wandsworth Council suspended TfL’s green transport scheme in 2020 due to alleged confusion and traffic congestion caused by the LTN initiative.
While facing mounting pressure to reconsider the 2030 deadline for the phase-out of petrol and diesel cars, the Prime Minister has firmly stated that there will be no delay.
The government remains committed to the established timeline, Mr Sunak has confirmed.
The Local Government Association believes a nationwide review of LTNs is unnecessary, asserting that councils are the most suitable entities to make decisions.
Linda Taylor, their spokesperson, emphasised the importance of consulting with residents and businesses to find the best solutions for alleviating congestion and improving air quality.