Western extension of the London congestion charging zone is scrapped - 27/11/2008

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson has today scrapped plans for the western extension of the congestion charge zone. The decision comes after a public consultation which saw many opposed to the scheme. "During the election I promised Londoners a genuine consultation on the future of the extension," Mr Johnson said. "Londoners have spoken loud and clear, and the majority of people have said that they would like the scheme scrapped."

However, others have criticised the move, which comes in the same week that Johnson declared to make London "the worlds leading city in delivering carbon reductions. Richard Bourn, Campaign for Better Transports London campaigner, comments, "the congestion charge had successfully reduced traffic in the Western extension by 10%. Now traffic will grow again and congestion and carbon emissions with it. London is rapidly losing its reputation as a leading city in progressive transport and environment policies."