Sir, Westminster City Council is concerned about the effects of the congestion charging scheme on small businesses. A recent study by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) showed that just under a quarter of businesses within the congestion charging zone are considering relocating outside the zone.
We repeatedly hear from Transport for London how successful the scheme has been at reducing traffic, yet it seems to be unable to recognise its adverse effects. Transport for London has stated that “indications of the social, economic and environmental effects of the scheme will not be available until the Spring of 2004”. Many of the businesses surveyed by the LCCI are only too well aware of the effects of the scheme, yet already the Mayor is considering an extension.
He needs to take a hard look at reviewing the current scheme and its impact on business before looking at plans to extend it.
Yours sincerely,
COLIN BARROW
(Cabinet member for economic development and transport),
Westminster City Council,
64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP.
August 4.