Yet this can only be achieved by a balanced approach to traffic management measures. Road user and workplace parking charges may be part of the answer, but they are not a panacea for Scotland's congestion ills. Charging can reduce congestion in urban areas. If we do nothing, congestion will only get worse. Gridlock on some of Scotland's urban roads is a real possibility.
Traffic jams cost time and money.
Costs that Scottish business and the wider economy can ill-afford. Traffic jams also cause air pollution and affect the health of those living alongside busy roads. Charging can raise much needed revenue to improve local transport. The Executive recognises that few of us like the idea of paying more for our journeys. But if such charges can be shown to deliver tangible benefits in terms of improved public transport provision, improved roads and improved journey times, and improved air quality, then the Executive believes that the public will accept that congestion charging as distinct from road tolling has a role to play in managing Scotland's traffic.