DfT rubbishes rumour of anti-jam toll on M6
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THE GOVERNMENT HAS refuted press reports that it plans to introduce a £2 toll on the M4 to combat congestion. This follows the publication of a Highways Agency draft consultation paper on its route management strategy for the motorway over the next 10 years. A Department for Transport spokeswoman says: "The
government has absolutely no plans to introduce atoll on the M4. The story is based on a Highways Agency consultation paper which includes a number of ideas from different parties about how to reduce congestion in the area." However, Martin Carroll, chairman of air-freight operator Saints
Transport, says he would welcome a toll: "It's a fantastic idea if it reduces traffic on the road and lets us get on with the job. If we have to pay an extra penny on a delivery it will be passed on to the customer.
"If the toll cuts delivery time by half and saves us money, because we won't have queues of trucks waiting to get into London wasting fuel and polluting the air, then it's a great idea."
But Gerry Shingleton,fleet manager at Hounslow-based J&MAttwood disagrees: "We have enough costs with congestion charging without a toll on the M4."
• Most businesses in London are against plans to extend the congestion charge zone, according to the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Its survey found that 67% oppose the plan to extend the zone into Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea. Only 19% are in favour 13% are undecided.