30 August 2023
AA analysis of today’s National Travel Survey shows that the nation is still very car dependent despite all the talk of public transport or active travel. However, while UK travel has recovered post-lockdown but not to the level seen before the pandemic, walking is at record levels.
Edmund King, AA president, said: “ This survey shows the reality of travel outside of urban areas. Whether people like it or not, we are still a very car dependent society. Car drivers used their car almost every day last year and car passengers almost every other day. It is also telling that females make more car trips than males but that males tend to drive further.
Walking in the UK is looking healthy not only statistically but also in terms of the benefit to the population
“Car dependence is also a factor in commuting outside of London with almost 70% of urban commutes by car and a massive 84% in rural areas. This survey shows the vital importance of the car in society and so is a reminder than investment in road maintenance, reducing congestion hot spots and support for the transition to lower emission vehicles is absolutely essential to keep the country running in a sustainable manner.”
“Short trips are showing some signs of change. Walking in the UK is looking healthy not only statistically but also in terms of the benefit to the population. More people appear convinced that many short journeys can be done on two legs rather than by car,” says Edmund King, the AA’s president.
“While the lockdowns may have re-kindled enthusiasm for walking, record pump prices will have been a major influence. People working from home will have helped also.
“The downside from councils’ point of view is that residents who walk their streets have become more acutely aware of the poor state of their roads and this has raised anger with potholes.”