Congestion Charge, how will you vote, what do you think?

[andy+kirsty]

Those who have to drive, eg everyone who needs to take more than themselves and some sandwiches to work!

[Belly]

those who have no alternative to drive cars


In reality there are very few of these people. Most who claim this, actually have effectively chosen a lifestyle that is dependent on a car.

What about the 30% of GM residents who don't own a car?


and allowed the 'no vote' some public money for a fair advertising campaign


They have hardly struggled for cash.... The Trafford Centre has spent a fortune on fighting the charge - I wonder why?

[andy+kirsty]

In theory the concept is great, reliable public transport which is cheap, safe, clean and there when you need it. however when the busses were sold off the companies knew the deal. They reinvest profits to provide better bus/train services like good businesses do. I am totally opposed to public money being given to stagecoach and the others to buy new equipment. what happens in 15 years when the busses and trains are old and in a similar condition to todays? do they go cap in hand back the manchester council?

I want to vote yes, but totally disagree with the way the whole thing is set out. it they reworked the plans, pledged to improve the roads for those who have no alternative to drive cars, and allowed the 'no vote' some public money for a fair advertising campaign then i think that many more people would feel that the whole process is a little more equal.

they dont have to act on the ballot. and i have a feeling that we will get this charge regardless of how we vote!

[moorendman]

Will a regular direct bus service to Manchester be in the proposals?

Probably......but it will only run when there are engineering works on the Marple to Piccadilly Railway line !

[alan@marple]

Will a regular direct bus service to Manchester be in the proposals?

[nbt]

I support the concept but do not support the proposed implementation, therefore  NO votes all round from the NBT household!

[Belly]

I'd like to vote no due to the pathetic benefits to Marple, but I suspect I'll vote yes (and have done here where it matters not) as I actually support the concept.

If not the congestion charge then what instead? The money is never going to be provided by Central (aka Londoncetric) Government "Money for Metrolink, ooo no.... Crossrail in London, where did I put my chequebook?". Its the only idea I've heard of that is ever going to raise the money needed and paid by those who contribute to all those cars on our roads at times when the road systrem just can't cope (and that includes me!).

Then again, I always support and underdog!

[amazon]

two no s from this  household as well. and posted back all ready .

[Barbara]

Couldn't agree with you more.  There seems to be absolutely nothing in the proposals for Marple, and on the wider view only negative effects for most of Stockport.  What, for instance, happened to the original plans for the Metro?  They clearly showed that the system would come out to Marple.  Definitely NO from me!

[moorendman]

The forms are coming through your doors this week , have your say and post an indication on here.

[moorendman]

and instantly produced 2 "no"s from this household. I cannot see how this flawed and inequitable plan is heading for anything else other than a resounding defeat. How does everyone else feel?