According to the BBC it has now been suggested that for the proposed Manchester congestion charge to get the go ahead it will need to be approved at a referendum
Congestion charge Manchester
According to the BBC it has now been suggested that for the proposed Manchester congestion charge to get the go ahead it will need to be approved at a referendum.
Due to the extent of the area the proposed charge will cover it involves 10 different local authorities. As is usual some of these bodies support the charge and some don’t. It seems the fairest way forward then is to have a general referendum on the issue assuming everyone agrees to abide by the result.
If this happens then the key is the question that is asked. With my tongue firmly in my cheek perhaps I can make some suggestions which would give you differing answers:
- Would you want to pay when you drive into the Greater Manchester area? – No
- Would you like to see investment into Greater Manchester’s public transport? – Yes
- Would you like to reduce your car journey time due to less congestion? – Yes
If there is to be a referendum, based on past experience, it will be extremely unlikely that the charge will go ahead meaning the area could loose out on public transport improvements promised as a result of congestion charging revenue.
In 2005 Edinburgh undertook a similar referendum and 74% of voters rejected the scheme sending out a very clear message. If these schemes are ever likely to get public backing then there needs to be a clearer package of benefits available to drivers rather than someone just telling them they will have to pay more to use their car.
