Following the statement from the Secretary of State earlier today
regarding the expansion of Heathrow Airport, documents from the
Department for Transport show “That the introduction of a
congestion or access charge for road vehicles should be
considered.”*
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA says; “Adding
another cost to families heading on their holidays is unfair and
unnecessary.
“With Heathrow pick-up parking charges starting at £4 for up to
half an hour**, and with some of the most expensive airport
parking fees, drivers are already paying more than they are to
park in central London***. In effect, a congestion charge would
become a tax on holidays and business travel.
“For those not fortunate enough to live near a public transport
hub connected to Heathrow, it could mean that the cost of driving
and parking could outstrip the price of the flight. A laughable
prospect, but potentially a tragic reality for those low income
families who would feel the impact of this tax the most.”
ends
NOTES TO EDITORS
* Page 51, Para 5.29 - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/713354/airports-nps-new-runway-capacity-and-infrastructure-at-airports-in-the-south-east-of-england-web-version.pdf
** https://www.heathrow.com/transport-and-directions/heathrow-parking/heathrow-short-stay-parking
*** https://www.q-park.co.uk/en-gb/cities/london/park-lane/
