Experts at The University of Manchester are teaming up with BBC Manchester to produce a detailed picture of changing public opinion on controversial regional transportation plans. 
Proposals to introduce congestion charging, as part of a plan to invest £2.7billion funding in the region’s transport system, have sparked a huge debate and divided public opinion.
Experts from Manchester’s National Centre for e-Social Science (NCeSS) – along with BBC Manchester - have launched an interactive map, which will colour code different shades of opinion on the proposals and group them by postcode.
The map – at www.bbc.co.uk/manchester - shows how the public would react if a charge was introduced during peak periods – up to a maximum daily charge of £5.
With public input, Prof Peter Halfpenny, Director of NCeSS said the maps will provide a rich source of information to the local authority planners. ‘We hope as many people as possible contribute to this initiative.’
‘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 government has promised Greater Manchester Councils a £2.7bn Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) to carry out improvements to bus, rail, tram and school bus services if it introduces a two-ring congestion charge system.
The public will also be able to contribute to the map by visiting http://www.MapTube.org/congestion/.
For more detailed information about the University’s transportation initiative and research, go here.
Content added on October 24, 2008.
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