Congestion On London Roads

Traffic data and information supplier Inrix has published a report 2023 Global Traffic Scorecard which indicates London has the most congested roads in Europe for the third year running. Motorists went through 99 hours on average in traffic in 2023, an increase compared to 97 hours the previous year. The report concluded that the roads in London are only just behind New York and Mexico. Both China and India were not included in the report.

Author of the report, Bob Pishue, said: “We are seeing travel return to pre-Covid levels.

“The UK and Europe have seen smaller increases in congestion this year than in other parts of the world which indicates that these countries have found their new travel norms.

“While London remains most impacted by congestion in the UK, its drop to third suggests that other large global cities have returned to pre-Covid levels of activity.

“As an indication of strong economic activity, increased congestion can be a positive sign for cities.”

The report indicated that the time spent in traffic was up by 3% when compared to levels from before the pandemic.

The fact levels continue to rise means more drivers have to factor in added time to their journeys and commutes, which of course is a frustrating factor added to most peoples mornings. This is also combined with added fuel for most motorists.

There has been talk of park and ride schemes being implemented which although will be a costly outlay, will help cut the daily traffic build up.

The other concern is the raising level of pollution due to the congestion.

London Air say:

“Diesel cars, trucks and buses emit particularly high concentrations of fine soot and large numbers of very toxic substances coat these particles. Toxic substances are also found in the coarse particles formed from brake wear and road surface abrasion and these particles are re-suspended in the air by moving traffic.”