The controversy over the TIF proposals to introduce Congestion Charging in Greater Manchester is continuing with the latest issue being over the forthcoming referendum. At a meeting of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities this week the 10 local councils voted to accept a draft question and ballot package as designed by Sir Neil McIntosh – an independent expert
The controversy – as far as some councils are concerned – is to do with the fact that “Congestion Charging” is not mentioned at all. The question is preceded by text which will mention the peak hour weekday charge and the £2.7 billion of transport improvements which will go-ahead with it but at no point does it mention the words Congestion Charging. The actual question just asks whether the public support the proposals or whether they don’t.
The papers to vote will be sent out at the end of November with the deadline for votes being 11th December. The proposals will be given the go-ahead if the majority of respondents in at least seven of the ten council areas say yes to the proposals.
* Further details have also been revealed of features of the transport improvements. These include a 20% discount on bus and tram tickets for low paid workers (likely to be those on minimum wage) and a new Metrolink stop at Kingsway Business Park next to M62 in Rochdale.
Source: Manchester Evening News