Tools for road user charging (RUC) scheme option generation

Abstract

The concept of road user charging (RUC) has long been on the list of economists' preferred approaches to tackling urban traffic congestion. There have been numerous studies into the potential for introducing RUC in urban areas as diverse as Stockholm, Hong Kong and the Ranstaad region of the Netherlands—but still there are very few practical applications. While such studies have demonstrated the technical feasibility and economic benefits of introducing RUC schemes, limited public acceptability has been shown to be one of the key factors preventing implementation. However, following the successful introduction of RUC in London in February 2003, more cities are beginning to take an interest in investigating the appropriateness of this measure—both as a means of traffic reduction (cutting back on traffic congestion, air pollution, etc.), and as a means of raising additional revenue for major transport investments. As part of a PhD programme of research funded by the UK Department for Transport, a method has been developed, using an interactive web-based tool, to assist city authorities in investigating the potential suitability of road user charging to meet local policy objectives, and the kinds of scheme that might maximise public support, while meeting efficiency objectives. The method is based around a framework that is designed to provide a structured means of approaching the development of RUC options. It comprises three main modules: 1. Stakeholder Needs Assessment 2. Measures-Objectives Matrix 3. Generic RUC Option Generation Tool The method has been tested among professionals and the public in various UK cities. This paper summarises the method and draws some conclusions.