Rapid Transit Systems

Mr. Scott
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of light rail schemes in reducing urban congestion.

Mr. Tom Harris
The Government recognise that light rail can help to reduce congestion by delivering quicker, more reliable journeys, thereby attracting people out of cars. The effects in any particular city depend on such factors as design of the light rail system, and traffic levels. The benefits of reduced congestion are taken into account in the assessment which is undertaken by the promoters for any light rail proposal.

Scheme promoters also monitor the performance of their schemes. It is now a mandatory requirement that all schemes receiving Government funding are subject to an evaluation after opening. This will provide future information on the impact of light rail schemes on congestion levels.