We’re spending 5 days a year stuck in traffic jams

DRIVERS spend a total of almost five days a year stuck in traffic because of mounting congestion on the roads, a report released today reveals.

The Local Government Association, which represents councils, also found that sitting in traffic costs each of us £968 a year.

It is calling for local authorities to be given long-term funding to tackle the problem, as well as extra powers to tackle drivers in problem areas.

The report forecasts that congestion will cost the economy £300billion a year by 2030 – a tenfold increase of current costs.

Judith Blake, the LGA’s transport spokesman, said: ‘ When the average motorist is spending a working week every year sat in traffic on major roads, and losing almost a £1,000 in the process, it’s clear that councils need to be able to do more to tackle this growing problem.’

‘Councils are working hard to combat traffic and congestion.

‘But they need long-term consistent funding to invest in local roads and need greater powers to solve the problem and introduce attractive alternatives to car journeys, such as through public transport, walking and cycling.’