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Chamber and committees

City of Edinburgh Council’s Proposed Plan to Introduce a Congestion Charge for the City Centre

  • Submitted by: Miles Briggs, Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.
  • Date lodged: Thursday, 29 January 2026
  • Motion type: Members' Business Motion
  • Motion reference: S6M-20615
  • Current status: Has not yet achieved cross-party support

That the Parliament notes the consultation being undertaken by the City of Edinburgh Council on the proposed introduction of a congestion charge for cars coming into the city centre; understands that the council is in discussion with Glasgow City Council about the proposal, as well as other Lothian councils; further understands that, in 2005, a referendum was held by the City of Edinburgh Council on introducing a congestion charge, which was comfortably defeated; recognises that London is the only city in the UK with a congestion charge, which was introduced in 2003; considers that London continues to be the most congested city in Europe, despite the congestion charge; believes that people will still need to drive into Edinburgh city centre for reasons such as work, education and healthcare, and that this charge will add an additional financial strain for many families, and notes the reported concerns from residents across neighbouring Lothian communities regarding the potential impact on businesses and people accessing public services.