ITS UK 2012 Road User Charging Conference

23/02/2012 - 23/02/2012

When: 23 February 2012

Where: Thales Transportation Systems, London

Government budgets are reducing but the efficient use of road capacity is increasingly important for future prosperity.

The view of the Department for Transport is clear: “Our vision is for a transport system that is an engine for economic growth, but one that is also greener and safer and improves quality of life in our communities”.

The currently necessary cutbacks in funds for road improvement and maintenance lead to an increasing backlog, and to pressure for even higher investment in future. A reduced tax take from fuel, despite increasing demand for personal mobility and movement of goods, results in mounting congestion and even less freedom for action.

Resources are low for initiatives at local level. In such conditions, road pricing offers a fair and equitable approach within a balanced and considered set of economic measures.

Similar economic problems are seen across Europe, where road pricing policies are designed to fulfil diverse needs. A common factor is the ‘user pays’ principle, to address funding, congestion and environmental challenges at local and national levels. Taxation reform can maintain a flow of funding to maintain vital infrastructure. The planned UK HGV charging scheme is a step in this direction.

The fifth annual RUC Interest Group conference provides a forum to look at the intelligent application of technology, to identify best practice and help solve the economic challenges central to our future well-being.

For more information, registration and agenda, visit ITS UK website.