More than half (51%) of motorists believe that public transport needs to be more affordable to help reduce reliance on cars.

The Venson survey reveals driver concerns over future commuting options.

Published as a number of cities look to implement clean air zones to restrict vehicle usage, in particular for diesels, the survey from Venson Automotive Solutions found 31% of drivers will think twice about driving in city and town centres that levy a charge for vehicle use – but more than a third (35%) of drivers think the public transport infrastructure needs investment to ensure it will be able to adequately support an increase in users.

And a further 26% of drivers surveyed said they would like to see greater investment in cycle highways and pedestrian walkways in cities and towns.

“Many of those we surveyed want to see significant investment in public transport before a ban comes into place. However, HS2, the rail line designed to connect major UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester won’t be running until 2026,” said Simon Staton, client management director, Venson. “Although people support the idea of cleaner cities, they also want affordable access to urban centres, which means many feel the bans are coming too soon.”For more of the latest industry news, click here.