Chinatown airs ‘serious concerns’ over bus priority zones

THE Manchester Chinatown Business Association fears plans to close part of Portland Street in Manchester as part of a bus priority programme will hit trade.

Transport for Greater Manchester wants to close the street to general traffic between Chorlton Street and Newton Street as part of a range of changes that will be introduced by 2015 designed to improve public transport.

In a statement the association said a “detailed examination… revealed serious concerns regarding these proposals”.

It added: “Many expect a downturn in visitor numbers and also in revenue for retailers and businesses as a result of these plans. By and large people in Chinatown are very supportive of their city and council, and have forborne the exorbitant rises in parking costs and hours.

“However, the previous rises in parking charges in Manchester, on top of a country wide recession, has hit our small businesses incredibly hard. Already we have seen the closure of two restaurants and some businesses having to reduce opening hours. The local feeling against the bus lane priority package runs strong, and further plans to reduce parking spaces in the area, and drive private vehicle users away from the central business district are major concerns.”

The association estimates 45% of visitors travel to the area by private vehicle, and a further 18% in minicabs, which will be excluded from bus priority zones.