This week, Hannah Randolph is joined by Josh Hampson to explore the growing conversation around congestion charging in Glasgow. With city councillors recently expressing interest in the idea, the episode dives into what such a scheme could look like and how it might align with Glasgow’s Low Emission Zone.
Drawing on examples from London, New York, and Edinburgh’s unsuccessful proposal, Hannah and Josh discuss what lessons Glasgow might learn from other cities, and unpack the potential benefits, challenges, and public reactions to congestion charging.
Timestamps
(00:23) What is congestion charging?
(02:59) Exemptions
(04:49) Similarities with low emissions zones (LEZs)
(07:10) Timing of charges
(10:26) Use of discounts & revenue
(14:54) Clyde Tunnel Toll
(16:26) Edinburgh’s failed proposal
(20:13) Other UK charges
(21:43) Effectiveness of congestion charges
(23:37) Glasgow’s public transport system
(25:57) Public attitudes
Authors
Hannah is a Fellow at the Fraser of Allander Institute. She specialises in applied social policy analysis with a focus on social security, poverty and inequality, labour supply, and immigration.
Josh is a Knowledge Exchange Assistant at the Fraser of Allander Institute.