T HE GOVERNMENT'S White Paper on tourism highlights the hazards of
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coach operation in London. This is an important element of the national and London economy.
Commendably, solutions to both routeing and parking problems are being sought. And with some urgency. This is not before time. The facilities for parking near tourist attractions arc totally inadequate and it is difficult to imagine how they can be improved without a major demolition and construction project.
But something must be done. The present position is more than an annoyance to tourists, tour operators and residents. It is chaotic. Traffic around Lambeth Palace, the Mall, the Tower of London is too heavy for the facilities which are provided.
The growth of round-London tours has added enormously to the problem. During the summer months traffic in central and west London is almost at a standstill. The situation frays tempers, wastes and may soon drive tourists away. Th not a new problem; it has been arounc and developing for years. When we present a problem we usually offer a solution, but this time we pass.
However, let us highlight another problem which could arise. If the GEC lorry ban is to rid the capital of heavy traffic, might it not take similar action against coaches? While coaches are earning revenue for London's ratepaye this is unlikely, but the imposition of ; hefty London touring fee should not b ruled out. That would penalise both operators and tourists, but it would tic reduce the traffic.
This time practical solutions must b found.
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