A national road pricing scheme should be introduced as a measure to tackle environmental damage and combat traffic congestion, according to Comhar, the Sustainable Development Council.
The Council said all existing fixed charges for road transport – such as vehicle taxes – should be replaced with distance-based road charges, which would vary according to vehicle emissions, geographic location and time of travel.
A spokesperson said the Netherlands has recently approved the phased introduction of a national road pricing scheme, with popular support.
Comhar also wants the Department of Transort to consider the development of a national rural transport policy, and investment in and prioritisation of walking, cycling and public transport, especially in city centres.
