Could older cars face higher charges?

Is it really green to encourage drivers to change their cars? That’s the issue open for debate as a Devon council considers charging staff with older cars a higher rate for parking.According to a BBC report, Teignbridge District Council is proposing to scrap free parking at its Newton Abbot headquarters and instead implement a two-tier charge – cars made before January 2001 will be charged £1 a day; while those built afterwards will be charged at a rate of 50p a day.Unions have commented that it is unfair to levy such a charge as many of the drivers of older vehicles are lower-paid and can’t afford to buy newer vehicles.The aim of the proposal is to increase the number of staff that cycle, walk or catch the bus to work.Christine Bolton of the union Unison told the BBC that her car is registered prior to 2001 meaning she would be subjected to the higher charges – however, she questions how green it is considering the energy that is needed to produce new cars. She believes it may be greener for people to hold on to their older cars as long as they are running efficiently.Council leader Alan Connett stated that because of the comments from unions and staff, the council is “not likely to proceed with the two-tier charging system”. However, he states that the council does believe in a green travel plan and wants to encourage the use of buses, bicycles and other transport methods that are more environmentally friendly.

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