PUBLIC spending watchdog the Audit Commission has slammed local authorities for not framing transport strategies to reduce car use. In a report this week, the Commission says councils should restrain traffic growth and enhance public transport.

It says some councils have environmentally sensitive proposals for projected traffic flows but most still prefer road building. The report says councils must promote alternatives to the car such as walking and cycling.

Objectives include limiting car parking in new office buildings and increasing long-stay parking charges. Some councils plan to manage urban car use by dissuading people from driving into cities.