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Unexpected boost for congestion charge supporters

02/04/2008

Greater Manchester's bid to pay for public transport improvements with public money has been given a boost by the unexpected withdrawal of its main rival, the West Midlands, from the competition.

It means Manchester is likely to be awarded £1.2 billion from the government's Transport Innovation Fund, plus a loan of £1.8 billion, which must be repaid with congestion charge revenues.

The West Midlands pulled out of the race after decided it did not want a regional road toll. Apart from Manchester, Cambridge is the only other contender.

Manchester transport chief Roger Jones has promised that a congestion charge will not be introduced until the buses, trains and trams have been improved.

Earlier this year, Councillor Jones said the introduction of a road toll scheme in Manchester will not be rolled out until 2013, a year later than originally planned.

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester city council, has repeatedly said the city-region must reduce congestion to improve air quality and traffic flow.

He also warns that failure to improve the transport infrastructure would hinder inward investment and job creation.