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Trafford Centre criticises 'expensive' c-charge

12/06/2008

A spokesman for the Trafford Centre has criticised a proposal to roll out a two-tier congestion charge in Greater Manchester.

Gordon McKinnon, who is the director of operations at the shopping mall, said it will affect the "ordinary people" of Manchester if the plan goes ahead.

He was speaking after the government said it would invest £3 billion in public transport improvements in Manchester in return for a congestion charge.

Gordon McKinnon told the BBC: "Those who are going to be hardest hit here are those who are actually least able to afford it.

"We are not talking about City financiers or London bankers; these are ordinary people in Manchester."

He also said a road toll would deter businesses from setting up shop in Greater Manchester and therefore slow down the regional economy.

The British Chambers of Commerce has also argued against the congestion charge, saying the motorist is already being taxed too much.