You are in > manchester.com  > News > Councils back Manchester congestion charge

General Manchester news

Councils back Manchester congestion charge

26/01/2007

Council leaders from the ten Greater Manchester authorities have all backed a road charging proposal at a meeting held on January 26th.

Although the scheme depends on a bid for £1 billion of government money to improve the transport system in the city-region, congestion charging could be in force by 2012.

Unlike London's all-day charging scheme, drivers who use Greater Manchester's busiest roads at peak times would have to pay the most per mile; off-peak motorists would be charged less or maybe nothing at all.

Various traffic corridors that lead into Manchester, such as Bury New Road A56, Oldham Road A62 and Stockport Road A6 have been highlighted as the most likely routes for congestion charging.

The latest technology, including licence plate recognition, satellite tracking and electronic tagging, could be used to charge drivers.

Lord Peter Smith, chairman of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (Agma), said that improving the roads is vital to job creation and urban regeneration.

He also said that Agma is also developing "ambitious plans" to improve the public transport network "so that it offers a realistic alternative to the car for some journeys".

Drivers, residents and businesses will be able to have their say on the proposal when the scheme is put out for public consultation at an unknown date.



© Adfero Ltd