| Topic: | Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Reducing our reliance on cars | |
| Posted by: | Ivonne Holliday | |
| Date/Time: | 14/02/19 17:21:00 |
| Hello Richard, I was under the (strong) impression that there was a suggestion of banning cars from PHS, or to pedestrianize PHS, on this forum a few months ago. At the same time, there were queries as to why Putney cannot be more like Richmond and/or Barnes. The answer I gave at the time is that Putney Hill and Putney High Street are two of three exit points of the A3 - and Richmond or Barnes do not have main roads exiting there..... Another point to be made is that for many people who live outside London, it is cheaper for them to use a car than pay annual rail season tickets.... A former boss of mine lived in Southampton and drove every day into London for years… The way cars are dominating our lives is in many ways horrendous but a lifeline to some; it is the reflection of relative increase in wealth, an increased independence for a few. There is increased pollution for sure and reduction of health and life generally. But this must also be seen in total context – computers, mobile phones and technological advance in general and lack of physical activity also have had, and continue to have, a very detrimental effect on health and life span. Comparing London today to the 1950s is very romantic and lovely I agree. But the 1950s had rationing still so it was not all roses then. The wealth of the UK did not start improving noticeably till the 80s, with Maggie Thatcher’s government. Not only was there an increase in wealth, there was a massive change with regard to food, diversity of it, coffee started improving only then. I believe very strongly that there must be affordable alternatives to the car. Rail fares and annual tickets are, in many cases, more expensive that driving. Something to consider? |