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FTA survey says charge a failure
Page 7
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• Congestion charging has meant higher costs and wasted time for operators, without any benefits from speedier deliveries, says the Freight Transport Association.
The industry body's first survey of 6,000 operators into the Initial month of charging highlights the inefficiency of the fleet scheme. It shows an estimated 31,000 man-hours were spent by hauliers setting up and administering the scheme, and many have had to constantly monitor what is meant to be an automated system. One company found that on three separate occasions it had been charged twice for the same vehicle on the same day.
Other complaints Include delays in registering vehicles, frustration at Transport for London for failing to return phone calls, and IT problems with monthly accounting.
While fleet managers said that there has been an Improvement in traffic conditions within the charging zone, this has been offset by the increase in traffic in the surrounding areas.
Sue Moody, FTA London regional director, says: "This first FTA survey since the scheme went live confirms our forecast of a substantial operating and financial cost on industry with no resulting benefits for delivery vehicles. The charge remains an unavoidable stealth tax.
"If the Mayor Is to continue to charge industry, then he should ensure that a value-for-money improvement in operating conditions is provided."
Tony O'Brien from Croydon-based F Dickson Transport agrees: "The scheme has been run by inefficiency and ruled by incompetence," he adds.