Campaigners urge political support for Workplace Parking Levy

Campaigners have written to all five party political leaders expressing support for the Workplace Parking Levy, announced as part of the budget agreement between the SNP and the Greens. The letter, signed by groups such as Friends of the Earth Scotland, WWF Scotland, Sustrans, and Living Streets calls for MSPs to ensure the power is granted to local authorities so that they can decide if it is appropriate for their area.

The letter sets out the key reasons that the environmental and transport groups back the plans that made such a positive difference to transport in Nottingham. It also corrects the misunderstandings and myths about the Parking Levy that have arisen since it was first agreed.

Dr Richard Dixon, Director of Friends of the Earth Scotland said:

“Workplace parking levies have a track record of delivering significant changes to travel habits, bringing much needed investment to transport infrastructure, and creating healthier places to live and work. It is an optional power being offered to councils. It won’t be right for every area, but to combat congestion and air pollution in our city centres, it is an important tool for councils to have available to them.

“12 organisations have written to the 5 party leaders to encourage them to consider the evidence. There is broad support for this policy, from people concerned about air quality to those who want to see concerted investment in public transport.”

Stuart Hay, Director of Living Streets Scotland said:

“Scotland needs to get smarter in how it funds vital infrastructure improvements for buses, cycling and walking. The Workplace Parking levy is a fair way of supporting action to cut chronic congestion and unacceptable levels of air pollution in our cities. A modest charge can give workers with cars alternative commuting options and make companies think more seriously about transport requirements and office location.”

Ellie Harrison from Get Glasgow Moving said:

“Most people in Glasgow don’t have access to a car, yet cars dominate our roads and public space while our public transport is underfunded and overpriced. The balance needs to change. This levy can be used to make large employers pay into improving our bus services, our cycle infrastructure and our trains.

“Investing in public transport is essential for expanding Glasgow’s economy, addressing inequality and social isolation, reducing toxic levels of air pollution and tackling climate change.”
ENDS