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Print1:27 pm, November 28, 2008
Chamber survey: 63 per cent against congestion charging
By Simon Binns
A member survey carried out by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce shows 63 per cent of respondents are against congestion charging.
The chamber surveyed 826 of its 5,400 business members on the proposals being put forward for the Transport Innovation Fund.
When asked about the package, 72 per cent of respondents said they did not view the proposed congestion charge as “an acceptable trade off” for the investment in public transport and predicted reduction in levels of congestion. Sixty three per cent were opposed to congestion charging in principle.
Other findings included:
65 per cent of respondents said they believe the current level of congestion on Greater Manchester roads is high.
67.3 per cent said they believe it will increase in the next five years.
33 per cent said they believe this is increasing their costs, but 49 per say there is no effect to them.
43 per cent of respondents are based outside both proposed charging rings.
50 per cent viewed the proposed public transport improvements positively.
60 per cent stated that public transport in Greater Manchester is poor.
Commenting on the results, Angie Robinson, chief executive of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: “We had hoped to have a much higher response from members, as this is such a hot topic.
“What is very clear is that for many businesses congestion is a problem and they believe it will get worse. Also, most businesses believe our public transport is poor and half of the respondents view the proposed transport improvements positively.
“But there is very significant opposition towards the congestion charge proposal. Clearly these businesses are not convinced that this TIF package is right for them.
“If we want Greater Manchester to be at the forefront of the modern economy, particularly when we come out of the current downturn, we will need good public transport to save time and money and benefit employees and businesses alike.
“There is a real challenge to the business community on the basis of these results. As the TIF package is the only deal on the table currently, what alternatives would be acceptable to fund the improvements that are sought if this is rejected?
“Interestingly, 40 per cent of respondents said that if the charge did come in they would adapt by changing delivery and meeting times, and 30 per cent would introduce more flexible working.”
Comments? sbinns@crain.com
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