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Congestion Charging Manchester
As I write this piece I am looking at the consultation regarding Road Price Charging in Manchester which according to the motorcycle press initially includes the charging of motorcycles.
Recent reports in the motorcycle press and local papers that the proposed congestion charging scheme for Manchester, to be submitted to Government later this year, has initial plans to charge motorcycles.
One quote from the above mentioned publications is, "A spokesman for the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) and the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority said today: “Motorbikes will be charged. It will be less than cars but it’s still to be decided how much less.”
A quote from the, Manchester City News June 4th 2007 says, "Manchester will become the first city to charge motorcyclists for using the city's roads under initial plans proposed to the government by transport chiefs.
Motorbikes have been exempt from London's congestion charge scheme since it was introduced in 2003 due to their low carbon emissions and also because they are not blamed for causing traffic jams.
Other city congestion charging proposals have generally made an exception for two-wheeled vehicles because they do not contribute to jams.
The Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority confirmed that motorbikes would be charged under the initial plans for a pay-as-you-drive system submitted to the government.
Chairman Coun Roger Jones said: "Over the past few days, I have received many emails from people who are not happy about the prospect of motorbikes being charged.
"We are currently in the process of carrying out a consultation about the proposed congestion charging scheme and now is the time for people who drive motorbikes or low emission vehicles to lobby us.
"A firm decision about whether to charge these two categories of motorists has still to be finalised and personally I think that they have a good case not to be charged."
It would appear that Manchester is against the norm, not only in the UK but in the rest of Europe.
I have written to the Greater Manchester Authorities preparing the consultation for confirmation of the charges as motorcycles are not referenced in their documents.
Tony Cox North West Regional Rep is aware and as soon as we get any further details we let you know.
Also thanks to those who forwarded the details and press reports.
In the meantime some details are at http://www.gmfuturetransport.co.uk
Don’t forget this year’s 30th Brum Demo/MAG National Demo on Saturday 7th July is against “The monumental Threat of Road Pricing and all it stands for”.
Trevor Baird
Public Affairs MAG UK
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