Academic Writing - Model Answer (Task 2)

In some large cities, people have to pay a fee when they drive their cars into the city centre, in a policy to reduce the number of cars in the city. Give reasons in support of and opposing this policy and give your own opinion.

Londoners are aware that if they venture into the city centre, a camera will read their car number plate and they will receive a bill for this later. This system was thought of as a solution to traffic congestion and has been successfully implemented.

City centres are crowded areas because businesses and shops are located there. Using a car to get there is a major cause of pollution. Making motorist pay a fine will encourage them to use public transport. Large cities have efficient and cheap public transport as well as an extensive network. Fewer cars on the road results in a clear environment in the city which benefits all residents. Other types of problems like finding a parking space, being late for work, paying for the expenses associating with owning a car and road rage will be reduced.

On the other hand, some jobs require driving into the city centre on a daily basis to deliver merchandise to shops, to maintain stock levels etc. These types of essential forms of car usage should not be restricted. Companies will find their expenses increasing if they are charged every time they need to deliver an item to a central address. This policy will also put off tourists or business travelers who are planning to rent a car.

Our world has become polluted as a result of carbon dioxide emissions that are released from cars. Owning a private car is a luxury and driving into the city when there are cheaper alternatives and environmentally friendly options should result in a penalty for drivers.

Question taken from Focusing on IELTS Academic Practice Tests p.89