New York has become the first US city to introduce congestion charges for traffic - should Dublin do the same?

A number of other cities around the world, including London and Stockholm, have introduced charges to reduce congestion in the city.

On Newstalk Breakfast, Calling All Stations podcast presenter Christian Wolmar said London's congestion charge system is "amazing"

"I live outside our congestion zone and I actually do own a car, but I’ve never actually paid it because why on earth would I drive into the city centre?" he said

"It’s both a deterrant and also a way of getting money for other transport schemes - the money from congestion charges supports better buses and the Underground."

'No-brainer'

Mr Wolmar said it would be a "no-brainer" for Dublin to introduce congestion charges.

"Dublin has discussed [congestion charges] for many years and we just need to bite the bullet, implement it and then build on that," he said.

Mr Wolmar does not believe congestion charges would negatively impact businesses.

Dublin Town CEO Richard Guiney, however, said the city should look at "more clever ideas" to reduce emissions.

"I’m looking at New Zealand where they have a charge for the use of roads so it’s not specifically on the city centre," he said.

"I think we need a system of road pricing where you’re charged for the length of time you’re on roads and the distance that you travel - I think that's a fairer way of doing that rather than just penalising Dublin City Centre on its own."

Cyclists and cars using Dublin City Roads, Leah Farrell/© RollingNews.ie

Mr Guiney said a congestion charge system would be "too blunt" for Dublin.

"80% of people who travel into the city use sustainable transport to do so," he said.

"I think you need to think of not just customers travelling in but also delivery vehicles, repair vehicles - all those vehicles that are actually required and they will add to the cost."

Mr Volmar said he believes congestion charges would encourage the remaining 20% of people to consider more sustainable methods of public transport.

Feature image shows traffic on Dublin's Quays, Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie