THE MOST traffic-clogged areas of the UK have been revealed – with two counties known for high levels of commuting taking the top spots.
A new study conducted by a group of traffic experts has shown which places in the UK encounter the most congestion.
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By examining the total volume of all vehicle traffic miles, the number of licensed vehicles, and the annual average daily flow of traffic in 2023, experts at traffic plan software Traffic Chart have determined the UK areas where you are most likely to get stuck in a traffic jam.
Each factor was given a score out of 10, with an overall score out of 100 calculated for each local authority to provide the ranking.
And it’s bad news for residents and drivers of Surrey – which takes the top spot.
Surrey came in with a total index score of 88.70 out of 100, keeping in mind 802,236 licensed vehicles spending a total of 8.448 billion miles in traffic in 2023.
What’s more, the county had an annual average daily flow of 8,968.
Following in second place was Essex, with an index score of 84.26.
The area reported 9.686 billion traffic miles in 2023, with a total of 1,003,293 licensed vehicles and an annual average daily flow of 5,116.
In third was Hampshire, with an overall index score of 82.93.
The total volume of the county’s 2023 traffic miles was 9.472 billion, and there were 1,145,649 licensed vehicles, with the area amassing an annual average daily flow of 4,601.
Ranking fourth was Kent, which had an index score of 81.38.
Kent boats 1,004,482 vehicles, which generated 9.383 billion traffic miles in 2023, and an annual average daily flow of 4,417.
The top five was rounded out by Warwickshire, with a total index score of 80.78 out of 100.
There were 6.076 billion traffic miles reported from all vehicles in the local authority for 2023, with the number of licensed vehicles reaching 423,280, and the annual average daily flow amounting to 6,186.
The areas completing the top 10 were Leeds, South Gloucestershire, Birmingham, Lancashire and Hillingdon.
Martijn Hulshof, founder of Traffic Chart, commented on how traffic congestion has become a significant issue in the UK for drivers and passengers, particularly in densely populated areas.
He added: “These counties are known for their high levels of commuter traffic, as they serve as vital links between London and the neighbouring suburbs where many professionals live.
“As a result of its proximity to London, Surrey sees a considerable influx of vehicles during peak hours, especially on major routes such as the M25 and the A3.
“The combination of residential developments and businesses in this area contributes to the heavy traffic, leading to longer travel times for residents.
“In Essex, the situation is similarly challenging.
“The county’s extensive road network, including the A12 and A13, often experiences congestion, particularly during rush hour.
“The growth of towns such as Chelmsford and Basildon has increased the number of inhabitants travelling to London and other employment hubs, making traffic worse.
“Additionally, Essex’s location near the River Thames and its various crossings can create bottlenecks, further complicating the flow of traffic.
“While there is no way to completely avoid traffic, there are ways to prepare yourself.
“You can do this by allowing plenty of time for travel, being aware of traffic reports, and if necessary, planning around expected congestion.
