Stockholm’s residents approve of congestion charging 25-09-2006 On 17 September 2006, Stockholm residents voted in favour of the
controversial congestion charging system tested in the city centre over a period
of seven months. Of the residents, 53% voted in favour of the system. Before the
start of the test, 70% of the residents were opposed to congestion charges.
Studies showed that over the testing period not only congestion has been
reduced, but also the number of traffic accidents. The test led to an
improvement of the air quality as well. The final decision on the continuation
of the charging system lies with the central government.
The results of the test has been better than what was first expected. The
passing of traffic over the congestion zone boundaries decreased by 22% (aim was
10-15%).
Other results are as follows:
Even though the outcome of the referendum was positive, it remains uncertain
whether the system will actually be implemented. The formal decision rests with
the central government. A majority of Sweden’s newly elected centre-right
coalition are strongly opposed to the system. They fear that congestion charging
might hurt Sweden’s economy and will unevenly burden the working class suburban
population of the Stockholm area residents.
Source: EurActiv back |
