The exploration into the possibility of implementing a congestion charge for Cardiff is well underway, with Cardiff Council leading the investigation. Although still in progress, initial consultations have already commenced. Approximately a year ago, Cardiff Council initiated the process of evaluating potential methods for drivers to contribute towards the use of certain roads within the capital.

The primary objectives of such a scheme include alleviating congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and generating revenue to enhance public transportation infrastructure. Upon the approval to initiate an investigation into a road user charge for Cardiff, a tentative timeline was outlined. This timeline, spanning 2023 to 2024, aimed to conduct research, planning, and public consultations.

In the latest update, the council disclosed its aim to reach a conclusive decision on implementing a scheme by 2026. If the decision to proceed with such a scheme is made, it would require two to three years for implementation, contingent upon the specific scheme chosen and subject to funding and regulatory approvals.

As per the council’s draft timeline from 2023, the objective was to finalize a detailed scheme design, encompassing planning, legal, and financial aspects, by the conclusion of 2025. Additionally, the submission of any draft orders necessitating ministerial approval could occur in 2026.

In the Cardiff Council’s transport white paper of 2020, a potential road user payment scheme was introduced, citing an example of a £2 daily charge, with the intention to mitigate air pollution and congestion. However, a report published by the think tank Centre for Cities in November 2023 suggested that a £3 charge might be necessary to discourage residents from driving.

The report proposed an alternative approach of imposing a slightly higher charge for entering specific, highly congested areas within the city, rather than implementing a charge for entering the entire local authority area, akin to the system in London.

While the transport white paper indicated that a prospective charging scheme would target vehicles entering the city, during the launch of the investigation, Council Leader Huw Thomas hinted at the possibility of residents also being subject to the charge.

Addressing concerns during a press conference in April 2023, Cllr Thomas emphasized the council’s commitment to minimizing the impact on Cardiff residents. However, he acknowledged the equity aspect, suggesting that Cardiff residents may receive significant discounts, similar to the model in London.

Early consultations on payment options have involved stakeholders from various sectors and organizations, including workshops with elected members of Cardiff Council and business stakeholders. These engagements mark the initial steps in the ongoing exploration of potential congestion charge implementations for Cardiff.