Transport Committee investigates urban congestion

The House of Commons Transport Committee has launched an inquiry into urban congestion with the aim of identifying cost-effective and safe strategies for managing limited road space in towns and cities, minimising disruption to local communities and businesses, and keeping urban traffic flowing.

The committee will examine combinations of measures that can come together to form integrated urban traffic management strategies, including: bus priority measures; road-pricing; parking schemes; cycling and walking infrastructure; street-running trams; and use of innovative traffic management technologies. The Committee will seek to identify balanced approaches that can be adapted to local circumstances, and are fair towards all types of road user.

The committee says it is particularly interested in integrated strategies for managing competing demands for urban road space; shifting people from private vehicles to public and active transport modes in urban areas; and reducing urban road traffic congestion.

The inquiry will also look into: managing disruption to local communities and businesses during construction and operation; construction and operating costs;

approaches to cost-benefit calculations; implications for the sustainability of the market for provision of bus services; and the safety of road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.

The deadline for sending written evidence is Friday 9 December.