A new survey suggests life after lockdown will see a modal shift towards active travel, with more than a fifth of drivers planning to use their cars less often.
The AA-Populus poll of nearly 20,000 drivers reveals that once the lockdown is over, 22% plan to drive less – a figure which increases to 24% among those over 65 years.
On the other hand, levels of active travel look set to rise – with 36% of respondents saying they will either walk, cycle or run more often.
The AA says reductions in car journeys could be significant in terms of cutting congestion and reducing environmental impacts.
Edmund King OBE, AA president, said: Potentially there could be major changes to the way we travel post-lockdown.
“Outside of London which has parking and congestion charging restrictions, we could see an increase in car use in other cities where people shun public transport for fear of the virus.
“However, this trend may be countered with a change in driving patterns by those who normally drive but have got used to leaving the car at home during lockdown.
“More than one in five say they will drive less after restrictions are lifted. It is also likely that at least one in ten will work from home more often.”
The AA also points to a poll, carried out for transport consultants SYSTRA, which suggests the number of people using public transport in Britain’s cities could be 20% lower after the end of the coronavirus lockdown.
Mr King added: “Life after lockdown will be different.
“Some will shun public transport, others will drive less, more will cycle and walk, working from home will continue for many.
“Some drivers who have appreciated lower traffic noise, fewer and shorter journeys, may be prompted finally to buy an electric vehicle.
“All in all, life will return and the increase in car use in some areas instead of public transport will be countered by others realising that they can use their cars less by working from home or even walking and cycling more.”
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