C-charge may lead way to jobs boom

SOME 10,000 new jobs could be created in Greater Manchester if congestion charging is introduced, supporters claim.

A report by consultants Arup predicts that as many as 5,800 new jobs could be created before any possible charge is introduced in 2013 as £2.7bn is spent on improving public transport — with another 3,900 jobs to follow from operations in the expanded transport system, including a Metrolink line in Oldham.

Julian Wells, who led Arup’s work on the report, said: “This is a huge investment in infrastructure that will create many jobs in building and implementing the transport measures over the medium term, and then in operating and maintaining the system in the long term. There will be further impacts in the supply chain, and the spending by those employed.”

Vote

The study summarises the estimated job consequences if the people of Greater Manchester vote “yes” in a December referendum to accept the Government offer of a £3bn transport investment package in return for what will be the biggest congestion charge scheme in the country.

Alan Manning, the North-West’s TUC regional secretary, said: “Unions are very encouraged by the jobs the proposed investment would create.

“Given the current state of the economy, this would be very welcome.”

The majority of the jobs created during the initial four-year period through to 2014 are set to be created in the construction industry and associated supply chain businesses, but further jobs may also be created as a result of the increased spending power of workers employed in these areas.

The effect of the investment on the economy would bring benefits to the labour market of improved travel across the region, according to the Dean of Manchester University’s Business School, Professor Michael Lugar.

He said: “Whatever jobs are created to build and operate the enhanced public transit facilities and services, there also will be job creation from ‘induced location’.

“That is from businesses that will find it attractive to move to and expand in Greater Manchester because of its improved public transport system.

“Numerous studies conclude that good mobility and quality of life are two of the most important location factors for businesses today, and the package would contribute to both those attributes.”