Glasgow Plans Congestion Charge, Clyde Tunnel Toll for Non-Residents

Glasgow City Council is exploring plans to introduce congestion charges and tolls for the Clyde Tunnel, targeting drivers who do not live in the city as part of efforts to reduce car usage and promote greener travel. The initiative, supported by Transport Scotland, aims to position Glasgow as a leader in road user charging alongside Edinburgh. However, no specific proposals have been finalized, and a regulatory and legal review must be completed before any charges can be implemented, with these processes unlikely to conclude before the Scottish Parliament elections in May. The council faces financial pressures due to the cost of maintaining the Clyde Tunnel, which is not part of the national road network and thus not fully funded by Transport Scotland. Councillor Angus Millar emphasized ongoing engagement with Transport Scotland and COSLA to navigate legislative challenges and ensure Glasgow is prepared to consider future developments. While the proposal has drawn criticism from some who call it a "tunnel tax" unfair to drivers from outside the city, the council continues to pursue it as a travel demand management tool.