C-charge route finalised

BOUNDARY lines for the proposed congestion charge between Failsworth and Hollinwood have been finalised.

The border will run along the Failsworth side of the M60 before diverting between Massey Avenue and Hillingdon Close, along Mersey Road North and over Oldham Road.

Heading along Stephenson Street, the boundary follows the Oldham Loop railway line before turning back up the Rochdale Canal across Hollinwood Avenue and Semple Way. After curling round Broadgate, the boundary would rejoin the M60.

The amendments were made following a recent meeting of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA).

All charging points have been positioned to account for social ties including business centres, local schools and doctors.

A spokeswoman for Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE) said: “By speaking to local authorities, we came up with a decision. In Oldham, the focus was on business. Making the final decision was all about fairness.”

The plans put Kaskenmoor School, Newbridge School and Hollinwood Business Centre on the outside of the boundary line.

Housing Units, based in Wickentree Lane, would remain inside the boundary while its headquarters in near-by Tweesdale Way would be on the outside.

Hollinwood councillor Stephen Barrow said: “I’m pleased that Kaskenmoor School and Newbridge School stay within the Oldham boundary as parents from Hollinwood going there won’t get charged.”

Under the plans, drivers coming in and out of Manchester would face a weekday peak-time charge. Two charge bands would apply — a £2 charge for crossing the M60 and a £1 charge for crossing Manchester’s inner ring road.