Congestion charge to cut jams’

as they debated the district’s transport strategy for the coming years.

His vision also includes stricter planning controls on the creation of private parking places, a reduction in the number of spaces in the city centre, tougher restrictions on lorries making deliveries, and 20mph speed limits in residential areas.

Mr Styles, who lives in St Augustine’s Road and is managing director of energy consultancy Stratos European Policy, told last Thursday’s meeting of the full council: “I commend such measures to you.

“Do not be afraid that steps intended to prevent our historic city being throttled by road traffic will threaten the welfare of citizens and businesses.

“Canterbury will remain an attractive destination for new residents, visitors and shoppers, come what may.

“The city’s attractions can only be enhanced by a new council focus on really sustainable transport.”

The council’s transport strategy stresses the need to reduce congestion and improve air quality by encouraging people to use more public transport or walk and cycle.

Prof Stephen Peckham, who also lives in St Augustine’s Road and works in the University of Kent’s Centre for Health Services Studies,

put forward ideas to reduce air pollution.

They include establishing 20mph limits in residential streets, emissions standards for buses and council-owned vehicles, and “no idling” zones in which drivers would be fined for keeping their engines running when stationary, in heavy traffic or at lights.

Solicitor Jeremy Baker urged the council not to reduce the number of parking spaces in the city, saying “policies against car parking are highly unpopular and damage the local economy”.

PLEA: Peter Styles