Workplace parking levy plan is worth considering IN response to letters on the possible workplace parking levy, it’s true that the county council is looking at various ways of reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.

If it is introduced, some employers might choose to pass on the cost of the levy (probably just £1 or £2 a day) to their staff. Since commuters are one of the main causes of pollution and congestion, it makes sense to see if we can reduce the lure of that free parking space at their workplace.

Other employers might choose to make more efficient use of their car parks, for example by building on them. However, some may be unaffected, because there are many different options with a WPL, for instance which area it would cover and which organisations would be exempt. Oxford City Council would, of course, be closely involved in the detailed consultation.

The introduction of a WPL in Nottingham was followed by a surge of new businesses into the city. None left because of it. It raised £7m in its first year, all of which was ring-fenced for public transport and cycling improvements.

With congestion rising all the time and air quality a huge concern, surely it makes sense to look at this?

SUSANNA PRESSEL

City and County Councillor for Jericho and Osney

Rawlinson Road, Oxford