Measures to Restrain the Car
Parking charges enable demand to be kept below the supply of parking space. The wider impacts depend on the alternative used by the car driver, since parking on the fringes of the controlled area, or in private parking spaces, will inevitably have less impact on the environment and travel time than switching to public transport.
Road user charging. Urban road charging (also called congestion charging or road pricing) is charging vehicles for the use of roads they drive on. Charges are aimed at reducing congestion and associated problems and charges could vary by location, time and vehicle type.
Public Transport Provision
Fare levels can be adjusted on all public transport services, and will have a direct effect on patronage and on car use. Fare levels can be more flexibly implemented than service level changes, and may thus have a greater absolute impact on car use. Fare reductions can, therefore, contribute to efficiency and environmental objectives, as well as improving accessibility for public transport users and hence equity benefits.
Fares structures include the introduction of flat and zonal fares as alternatives to conventional graduated fares, lower off-peak fares, and travelcards and season tickets which allow unlimited travel within a defined area. Changes in structure may contribute positively to efficiency, environmental and safety objectives, as well as improving accessibility by reducing the cost of marginal journeys. If appropriately designed, they may not impose a significant additional financial burden.
Concessionary fares provide certain sections of the population, including the elderly, disabled and young, with the opportunity to travel on public transport for free or at a reduced fare. The key benefits are in terms of equity and accessibility, in enabling people who would otherwise find public transport too expensive, or who cannot use cars, to travel.
Cyclists and Pedestrians
Pricing is rarely an issue for cyclists or pedestrians. However, some charges are made for secure cycle parking, especially if other amenities such as showers are available.
Freight Provision
The fiscal measures described above (parking charges, road user charging) are relevant for freight as well. Parking charges typically vary with vehicle type, and some congestion charging options envisage doing this.
