I agree that too many people use their cars in London. I am very surprised that over 50% of Southwark's car owners use their car for daily commuting. I support the congestion charge, but am frustrated at years of under investment in public transport. If you want to get specific to ED : there is arguably a bit of spare capacity in the local train network, but not much. And instead of having services increased, they are actually being reduced. Not much of an incentive to ditch the car, is it? Councils possibly could make a profit from parking fees (and fines) - but having some insight into the way local councils are ran, I seriously doubt they do!