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A huge consultation process is currently taking place over the proposed congestion charge for Manchester. Business people are being invited to a series of events in the city over the next few weeks and a detailed consultation brochure is being sent to more than 1.2 million households and firms. A dedicated website – www.gmfuturetransport.co.uk/business  – has also been set up.

Manchester is set to introduce the charge, which is tied to a £2.8bn investment in its bus, tram and rail networks, in 2013. The consultation finishes on 10 October and the responses will influence the decision of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) whether or not to proceed with the package for final government approval.

Under the proposals, drivers will be charged up to £5 to pass through two cordons into the city – an outer boundary at the M60, and an inner ring closer to the city centre. People will be charged for driving into the busiest areas at peak times: between 7am and 9.30am and 4pm and 6.30pm.