French hauliers fear urban tolls
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BY the end of 1977, another 305km of motorways should be opened to traffic by the French in a programme which aims to complete 7,500km by 1983.
Opening a major extension recently the French President said the toll-road principle is essential to allow construc tion at the present rate. This in fact, is claimed to be four times greater than if funds were provided solely by the State.
French hauliers, appreciative of the cost benefits which motorway operation brings to their operations — improved time-keeping, re duced fuel consumption and tyre life increased by up to 50 per cent (1) are among the advantages — were, how ever, severely shaken by reported statements by the Minister of Public Works, M Fourcade, who insists that tolls must also be imposed on urban sections.
Wherever "autoroutes" pass busy industrial centres and conurbations such as Lille, Metz, Lyons and on the approaches to Paris their use is toll-free to relieve pressure on ordinary roads.
If the Minister's intentions are implemented this reversal of original planning policy would most likely result in much of the commercial
traffic keeping off the express routes for short-stage
journeys causing additional congestion in the affected towns.