University maps congestion charge opinion

THE UNIVERSITY of Manchester has teamed up with the BBC to produce a map showing changing public opinion on plans for congestion charging.

The university’s National Centre for e-Social Science – along with BBC Manchester – have launched an interactive map, which colour codes different shades of opinion on the proposals and groups them by postcode.

The map shows public reaction to a charge being introduced at peak periods – up to a maximum daily charge of £5.

Prof Peter Halfpenny, director of NCeSS said the maps will be a rich source of information for local authority planners.

“Planners will gain an unfolding visual representation of the public’s opinions about the proposals as the debate about them hots up,” he said.

Proposals to introduce congestion charging, as part of a plan to invest £2.7bn funding in the region’s transport system, have sparked huge debate in the region.

Only people living in Greater Manchester will be able to vote in the referendum in December. But the plans will also affect those who live further afield and drive in to Manchester to work.

“We hope as many people as possible contribute to this initiative,” added Prof Halfpenny.

“The more who do so, the better the views of the public will be represented on this far-reaching scheme which will affect the everyday travel plans of all who live in the region.”

The question being asked is: If a congestion charge is introduced in Greater Manchester, along with significant investment in public transport, will you…

• Drive and pay the charge
• Drive at different times
• Use public transport/motorbike/bicycle
• Work or shop elsewhere
• I am not affected by these changes

Visit the map at www.bbc.co.uk/manchester or www.MapTube.org/congestion