Manchester TIF vote on a knife-edge

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Mancunians are split down the middle on whether to vote for a city-wide congestion charging scheme and associated transport improvements.

In a poll sponsored by United City, which is lobbying for the Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) improvements and congestion charge, show that just 53% are in favour.

Assuming a 5% margin of error, the final result remains very much in the balance in the final referrendum, which is likely to take place in December. The results will determine whether Manchester adopts the TIF proposals.

A United City spokesperson said, "United City's firm belief is that as more and more people understand the limited, peak time only nature of the charge and the fact that a majority of the £3bn public transport investment will be in place before the charging scheme is introduced, support will continue to grow for these proposals. 

"Through improved quality of life, a healthier environment and a more efficient transport network to support our growing economy, Greater Manchester is set to gain massively from these proposals. TIF is an opportunity we must not miss and it is encouraging to see that the general public is realising this."