David Begg-On the Edinburgh Referendum

[Porty]

Professor David Begg, director at the Centre for Transport Policy at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, said the future was challenging.

Quote "I think this has been a very worthwhile and productive exercise.

The challenge facing transport professionals, politicians, decision makers, generally is that the public still think there is an infrastructure solution to congestion - whether it's building a by-pass or a new road or improving public transport

However, the truth of the matter is while all that helps - particularly improving public transport - the growth in car use and traffic outstrips any city's ability to cater for increased travel. " End Quote

It is quite clear what David is saying in the last two paragraphs and I agree. What does the mean by his statement in bold?

In what way has the exercise been productive and worthwhile?

[ali]

[quote="Porty"]..............................the public still think there is an infrastructure solution to congestion - whether it's building a by-pass or a new road or improving public transport.........................................





I think that he probably means that it is productive and worthwhile in that it is another step along the long road of getting the car driver to face up to the facts about road congestion.

I also wonder with regard to the main reason most people seem to have come up with for rejecting the CEC congestion charging scheme - ie that it was the wrong scheme - well I don't think they will ever be satisfied with any scheme no matter how it is improved or tweaked if it involves them giving up their cars - getting people out of their cars and on to buses is going to be like trying to get the toothpaste back in the tube.

[Porty]

I think that he probably means that it is productive and worthwhile in that it is another step along the long road of getting the car driver to face up to the facts about road congestion.

I think he may mean that the exercise has been productive and worthwhile in regard to other Cities who may wish to implement similar schemes. I suppose it is valuable learning in relation to better preparation and strategising. I guess David has to see things more globally.

[Mimpty]

I think politicians never like to admit defeat and have to put some sort of positive spin on everything.
It was a huge, expensive gamble that did not pay off.

[Porty]

I think politicians never like to admit defeat and have to put some sort of positive spin on everything.It was a huge, expensive gamble that did not pay off.

I agree, there has not been single murmur of contrition from the Councillors. They blame the electorate for not understanding.

David Begg did not lose on this occasion, however I don't believe he would have backed having a referendum in the first place.