Sadiq Khan: Congestion Charge expansion would ‘split London’s Jewish community’

Sadiq Khan has warned the proposed expansion of the Congestion Charge would “split North London’s Jewish community in Hendon and Golders Green”.

The Mayor of London’s concerns come amid government proposals to extend a £15 charge to North and South Circular roads, in a bid to secure more funding for Transport for London (TFL).

The plans have led fears that synagogues such as Alyth in Golders Green could face a reduction in attendance.

North-west London Jewish communities also straddle the North Circular, separating Hendon to the north from Golders Green to the south. Extending the zone would impose a £15 payment on travelling between them.

Khan said it “would in essence split North London’s Jewish community in Hendon and Golders Green”, and would “have a devastating effect on London’s diverse communities, who are already suffering disproportionately as a result of coronavirus.”

“It is simply wrong to hit four million more people with additional costs at a time when many are struggling to make ends meet, and I have made clear to ministers that I will not agree to these draconian terms.”

“TfL’s financial issues are solely as a result of the pandemic. The Government must not punish Londoners for doing the right thing to tackle Covid-19, and should instead come back to the table with a revised plan which is right not only for our city but our country too.”