A Pound Too Far

Bikers to challenge 1 Pound parking fee in central London

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/england/london/10401046.stm
24th June 2010, BBC News Website

London bikers of the "No To Bike Parking Tax" campaign have sued the Westminster City Counsil for its orders to charge central London bikers with a parking fee of 1 Pound a day. The High Court has been asked to rule these new orders. The campaigning group states that the new measure would not benefit the traffic situation. They also accuse the council for acting outside their powers. The council itself thinks the fee is a "modest sum" and necessary for more street space. Councillor Lee Rowley of parking and transportation says that the council is confident that the challenge will be dismissed by the high court.

I think motorised traffic participants should be equally charged. It would not be fair is motorcyclists can park for free while cars always have to pay fees in the British capital. I think it is a good measure because it motivates motorcyclists to travel differently, for instance by public transport. The fact is that the central of London is a crowded spot and measures have to be taken to prevent it for becoming even crowdier. I understand why the motorcyclists protest, it never is fun to have to pay extra fees. I hope they will understand that they otherwise are priviliged above those who travel by car.