Manchester Congestion Charge could cripple area’s economic future, says FTA
Proposals for a congestion charge in the city of Manchester could seriously damage the economic future of the Greater Manchester area, according to Freight Transport Association (FTA).
The organisation representing the interest of hauliers across the country says that the benefit of reduced traffic and reduced congestion resulting from the charge will be far outweighed by the additional cost to companies operating within the charge zone.
The FTA has expressed its concerns in a consultation with The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) who is responsible for the congestion charge proposals.
Malcolm Bingham, Head of Roads Policy at FTA, said:
“Those behind this scheme had an opportunity to show their commitment to businesses in Greater Manchester, but they have wasted it, with poorly set out proposals which show little or no benefit to residents or companies operating within the area. FTA fully supports measures that keep goods and services moving as quickly and sustainably as possibly, but this scheme fails on all counts. While we welcome the plans to improve public transport options in the area, this should not be done at the expense of business and, ultimately, the consumer.”
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