Call for proposed restriction on Rome tour buses to be suspended
The European Tourism Association has called on Rome authorities to suspend the introduction of complex new regulations set to dramatically restrict the number of coaches into its historic centre from January next year.
ETOA and its members, which include local operators, hoteliers, restaurateurs, attractions and museums in Rome and tour operators who sell Italy worldwide, are recommending a suspension until either clear evidence is provided to show they would be beneficial or until there are more effective solutions developed which will have long-term benefits for the local community, businesses and visitors.
Speaking at WTM, ETOA spelt out its concerns about the 2019 New Tour Bus Plan including:
- It will make traffic congestion worse as coaches are an efficient use of road space taking up the space of approximately three cars
- The new regulation will increase congestion outside Zone C
- It will make air quality worse. The new plans restrict access for low emission vehicles
- It will damage the local community as it will make the provision of some private transport services for local people more expensive.
ETOA has extensive experience of working with destinations in addressing operational challenges to develop capacity management strategies. It claimed adequate investment in public transport and traffic planning is essential to keep cities appealing places to live, work and visit.
Consultation with industry to assess impact and develop smart solutions is essential, it said. ETOA chief executive Tom Jenkins added: "Rome is a jewel in the crown of many European itineraries and if these plans go ahead they will cause untold damage. ETOA can help Rome develop evidence-based solutions."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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