Have your say on future look of public transport

A MAJOR consultation begins today to shape the future of transport in Greater Manchester.

Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA) and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities are developing the next Local Transport Plan, the third of its kind.

It will set out the authorities’ spending plans for transport for the next four years, as well as long-term proposals for the next 15 years.

The 12-week consultation on the draft plan covers buses, heavy rail, Metrolink, walking, cycling, fares, ticketing, passenger information, highways, health, safety and greener travel.

Councillor Ian Macdonald, chairman of GMITA, said: “The Local Transport Plan is a vital document that will define how we approach our transport policies and investment plans over the next few years and beyond.

“It covers all modes of travel and aims to give a clear indication of the direction we want our transport network to take.

“Everybody knows that public spending is under intense scrutiny and it is more important than ever to make every penny count, so it is crucial that we have a clear understanding of our immediate priorities, as well as a longer term vision.

Councillor Keith Whitmore, vice-chairman of GMITA, said: “Greater Manchester is the most important economic centre outside London and we need to ensure that its transport links help it to achieve its full potential.

“People now have the opportunity to play a very real part in the evolution of the plan and I would encourage everyone to visit the website, read the brochure, see what is being proposed and share their views.”

The consultation runs until December 24 and will feed into the final plan, which will be published at the end of next March.

People will be able to discuss the plan with transport leaders on Friday at GMITA’s autumn transport seminar, which will be held at Manchester Central Convention Complex, formerly called G-Mex (2-4.30pm).

Places can be booked by emailing gmita@manchester.gov.uk or calling 0161-234 4619. Reservations must be made by tomorrow at the latest.

To find out more about the consultation visit www.gmpte.com/LTP3 . Copies of the consultation brochure will also be available at Travelshops, libraries and other public information points.