Göteborg's congestion charge on track: traffic down 20 per cent - update

The effects of the congestion charges are monitored continuously by looking at journey times of car traffic and public transport and traffic flows in the Göteborg region.

First conclusion is that the system has worked smoothly over the first two weeks. On the 2nd of January, traffic volume was 22 percent lower than it would have been without the charges. The reduction during the morning peak was even more substantial: 25 percent. In the next days, the reduction decreased slightly.

In the second week, traffic through charging points was 19 percent lower during the charge period. Traffic over a 24-hour period dropped by 17 percent. Also traffic outside the charge period dropped by 6 percent. traffic in the city centre was on average 23 percent lower. There has been less congestion on radial roads leading to Göteborg.

The city reports that it is too early to assess the impact of congestion charges on public transport use. It is clear however that during the first weeks of the charges, buses travelling to Göteborg in the morning peak managed to keep to the timetables. Park and ride lots have a considerably higher occupancy rate.  The number of fully occupied express buses has increased, together with the number of passengers. Vässtrafik have added extra buses for some routes. Also commuter trains see an increase of ridership.

Congestion charges are part of the West Swedish agreement. This includes new allocated bus lanes, longer commuter train platforms, new commuter parking for bicycles and cars, footpaths and bicycle paths and improved traffic information as well as new crossriver links and a new rail tunnel.

For more information: contact icre@polisnetwork.eu