Cambridge English Exams
C1 Advanced Essay Writing: Traffic Reduction
Example Exam Task
You attended a local council meeting where proposals to reduce town centre traffic were discussed. You have made the notes below:
What policies can we follow to reduce traffic in the town centre?
- cycle paths
- fines
- public transport
Some opinions expressed during the meeting:
- ‘Cycling everywhere isn’t realistic – what about large families?’
- ‘Fines mean the rich will continue driving.’
- ‘Nobody uses the existing buses and trams!’
Write an essay discussing two points in your notes. You should explain which policy would help reduce congestion most, giving reasons in support of your answer. Write 220 – 260 words in an appropriate style.
You may, if you wish, make use of the opinions expressed in the meeting, but you should use your own words as far as possible.
Example Essay
Reducing Traffic Congestion in Town Centres
Traffic congestion in town centres has become an increasingly pressing issue, and local councils are therefore exploring various policies to tackle this problem. Among the proposed solutions are the development of cycle paths and improvements to public transport, both of which aim to reduce the number of private cars on the roads.
One commonly suggested measure is the expansion of cycle paths. Encouraging cycling can significantly reduce congestion, as bicycles take up far less space than cars and do not contribute to air pollution. Moreover, cycling promotes a healthier lifestyle and is relatively inexpensive. However, it must be acknowledged that this solution is not suitable for everyone. Families with small children, elderly residents or people commuting long distances may find cycling impractical, which limits the overall impact of this policy. Furthermore, building cycle paths often means narrower roads or less space for pedestrians due to changes in how road space is used.
Another key proposal is to invest in public transport. If buses and trams are frequent, reliable and affordable, more residents may be willing to leave their cars at home. Although it has been argued that existing services are underused, this may be due to poor connections, delays or outdated infrastructure. By modernising public transport and giving it preference on the roads, councils could make it a genuinely attractive alternative to using private cars.
In my opinion, improving public transport would be the most effective way to reduce congestion. Unlike cycling, which is highly dependent on weather conditions, public transport can cater for a wide range of users and travel needs. Provided that the transport network is well designed, responsive to the needs of future users and environmentally friendly, it has the potential to significantly reduce car traffic in town centres.
Photo: Bicycle-sharing system in Toronto