NTA plan to introduce congestion charges would ‘choke’ city centres, says TD Higgins

Congestion charges would “choke” our city centres and have a devastating impact on businesses and retailers, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Emer Higgins said that the National Transport Authority’s suggestion of introducing €10 congestion charges for motorists and a 400% increase on parking charges would be unfair in the current economic climate.

“Any plan should focus on how we continue to prioritise improving public transport infrastructure instead of punishing people out of their cars,” she said.

“We’ve all seen the crippling effect petrol and diesel increases have had on motorists and businesses alike.

“Taken in the round, congestion charges and fuel increases will also end up increasing consumer prices as it costs more to bring goods to city centres.

“Our city centres are still recovering post covid. Any move to restrict motorists should be tied to capital investments ensuring that motorists have tangible alternatives to use when leaving their cars at home.”

Deputy Higgins says that “from a public transport point of view, a reduction in fares on trains, buses and the Luas have all had a very positive and encouraging effect on consumers and commuters.

“Any plan should focus on how we continue to prioritise improving public transport infrastructure, instead of placing further pressure on motorists.”