Chorlton Central Church

A chance to make a difference

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities have proposed major transport improvements, to be funded by a traffic congestion charge. They are currently seeking public comments and there will be a local referendum.

What is Proposed ?

Improvements to public transport including
- better organised bus routes
- easy access buses
- better bus stops
- improvements to rail stations
- park at ride schemes
- many more yellow school buses, to replace the 'school run'
- major extension to the Metrolink network, including to Didsbury and Wythenshawe (useful for the hospital)
- more and longer trams
- electronic 'smartcards' valid on all types of public transport

These improvements will mainly be made before Congestion Charging starts

Who benefits ?

Almost everyone.

The scheme is expected to;

• reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 6% across Greater Manchester
• reduce air pollutants by 10%

It will

• make it easier for the poorest in our communities to get about
• improve access for disabled people
• encourage cycling as a healthy alternative mode of transport

So what is the problem ?

The scheme is subject to public consultation and a referendum, and there is likely to be a well organised and well funded campaign against the scheme. Three of the Greater Manchester Councils are opposed to the proposals.

Why ? Because it will be funded by charging drivers at peak times.

The scheme is already being described by the media as a Congestion Charging Scheme, as though this were the only issue. This is unhelpful; there is far more at stake than just the additional charges on those well-off enough to be able to own and run cars. This is a rare chance to help the poorest and most disadvantaged members of our communities, while improving the quality of life for virtually everyone in Greater Manchester.

Why should the Church get involved ?

As Christians we believe God calls us to care for the disadvantaged in society; the weak, the poor, those disabled by illness. And we believe we are called to care about God's world, which we share with the whole community. The proposed investment in public transport offers the chance to offer help to those dependent on public transport, and the the possibility of doing less harm to the environment in the future than we are right now.

What can I do ?

Inform yourself

• read the infromation which will be sent to every household by Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities.

• visit the website

• respond to the public consultation - if you support the scheme say so !

• when the referendum is announced make sure you vote

• campaign - talk to your friends and neighbours

• make yourself heard !

revised 29 September 2008