Roads more congested than ever before

4.54.15pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 24th Jan 2008

Figures uncovered by the Liberal Democrats show that over the past decade, the number of vehicles on roads in Greater Manchester has increased by 12%. It means that despite promises to reduce the number of people relying on cars to get about, congestion on local roads has soared in the ten years since Labour came to power.

Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell said:

"These figures show a horrendous increase in the amount of traffic on roads in Stockport. The reality of the situation is that travelling by public transport is now more expensive but relatively to average incomes, the cost of travelling by car has fallen.

"When Labour came to power in 1997, John Prescott, who was then deputy Prime Minister, said, 'I will have failed if in five years' time there are not many more people using public transport and far fewer journeys by car. It's a tall order but I urge you to hold me to it.'

"The rise in traffic is clearly a huge failure by a Labour Government who promised so much but have only delivered more congestion, more pollution and more expensive buses and trains.

"The case for the extension of the tram to Stockport, for better bus services and longer trains at an affordable price is overwhelming. And so is the need to complete our local road network, and get the A555 Hazel Grove by-pass built before Stockport grinds to a halt."

Ends

Notes to Editors

1. The information was given in an answer to a Parliamentary Question. For more information see:

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200708/cmhansrd/cm080115/text/80115w0002.htm#08011597001383