Figures released following a poll of drivers by motoring group the RAC show that 57% would be willing to use their cars less if the quality of public transport was improved. Among this group, high fares, services not being frequent enough and poor punctuality are the most commonly cited reasons for not switching mode.

“While the car might be the obvious choice for many people’s journeys, especially for those who have already invested a lot of money in buying or leasing one, it is also clear just how frustrated many drivers are with the lack of decent alternatives for some of their trips,” said RAC spokesman Rod Dennis.

The group’s latest statistics show that 35% of drivers have become more dependent on their private vehicles in the last 12 months, up from 33% a year ago and 27% the year before that.

“For more than a decade now, drivers have been saying that they are willing to use their cars less if public transport was better,” added Rod Dennis.

“Connecting large residential areas with popular locations for work would surely be a good starting point.” He also advocated greater investment in walking and cycling infrastructure to encourage modal shift.

Campaign for Better Transport chief executive Darren Shirley commented: “Most drivers would like to use their cars less, but high rail and bus fares and infrequent, unreliable services are putting many off using public transport.

“The good news is that the Government has a golden opportunity to banish these bugbears, with a Rail White Paper and National Bus Strategy due in the coming months. It must take action to make public transport a more affordable, convenient choice and reduce car dependency.”

The RAC’s findings show that motorists who live in London are the most likely to use alternatives to their cars, given the capital’s more comprehensive public transport system.

Car sharing also provides an alternative to private vehicle use in London, where six car clubs are currently in operation. Local authorities group London Councils last week launched a new online resource to support collaboration between boroughs on car club policy.

“We’re keen to support car clubs where they help to reduce the total number of vehicles on the road and facilitate use of less polluting vehicles,” said London Councils’ transport and environment committee chair Julian Bell.

“However, car clubs don’t work everywhere and need to fit into our overall strategy for greener travel options such as walking, cycling, and public transport. Through improving data sharing with each other and closer collaboration, including with Transport for London and the car club sector, boroughs are developing a coordinated approach that will help achieve this.”

Transportation Professional’s March issue will include a feature on car sharing and car clubs.