| Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has announced the government's transport plans for the next 10 years. Here is an outline of his main points: ROAD PRICING A study had been undertaken on road pricing for cars where charges would depend on road use and the level of congestion. The study concluded that a national scheme had the potential to cut congestion by about half as well as providing environmental benefits. "Whilst a national scheme is not yet feasible, undertaking road pricing at a local level could be feasible now and the study suggests it would greatly improve understanding of the benefits", he said. Doing nothing would be the worst possible option, he warned. CROSSRAIL SCHEME The case for the London Crossrail scheme was strong but the estimated �10bn cost meant it was a huge challenge. A hybrid bill would be introduced so the project could go ahead while the government worked with Ken Livingstone and the London business community to sort out funding. The bill would be introduced at the earliest opportunity although major funding problems remained to be resolved, he said. The government will contribute an extra �340m towards transport projects in the capital needed to underpin the bid for the 2012 Olympics. TRAMS AND BUSES Tram schemes for Leeds and South Hampshire could not be approved due to escalating costs. Councils will be given new powers over bus franchising to guarantee routes, timings and fares.
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