Mayor Khan told to fund Bakerloo Line extension with pay-per-mile

Benali Hamdache, a Green Party assembly member, has proposed that London motorists should finance the Bakerloo Line extension through a "smart" pay-per-mile road charging scheme. Hamdache argued that the current system for charging drivers is unfair and should be reformed to place a greater burden on those undertaking non-work related car journeys.

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has consistently stated that he has no plans to implement a pay-per-mile charge for driving on the capital's roads. Despite this, Hamdache presented the idea at a Green Party conference fringe event, suggesting it as a solution to a "looming crisis in transport funding."

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Funding Shortfall for Bakerloo Line Extension

The Bakerloo Line extension, a significant infrastructure project aiming to extend services to Lewisham via the Old Kent Road and New Cross Gate, is currently held up by a shortfall in funding. Transport for London (TfL) has indicated that a "viable funding package" is still required to progress the scheme, with discussions with the government ongoing.

Hamdache suggested that a user-based charging system would incentivise Londoners to drive less and ensure that those who choose private car ownership contribute financially to necessary transport improvements. He contrasted this with the current flat-rate Congestion Charge, stating that a proportionate system would be a "fresh approach."

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He also noted that the existing Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) cameras could potentially be repurposed for such a scheme, as reported by Kumail Jaffer, Local Democracy Reporter. The Green Party proposal includes exceptions for disabled individuals and those who require their vehicles for work.

TfL's Exploration of Road Charging

In 2023, Mayor Khan acknowledged that government, TfL, and transport officials have been examining the pay-per-mile concept for some time. He informed the London Assembly that TfL had been considering new road charging options for approximately two decades, describing it as normal for officers to plan for various scenarios. However, he reiterated his commitment to not introducing pay-per-mile charges while he is Mayor, aiming to reassure Londoners following the implementation of the ULEZ.