On Monday, I was one of many from across Manchester's tourism industry to be invited by GMPTE to a discussion about the infamous congestion charge scheme.
Plans for a £3bn bid to the government's Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) were presented and details of how this money would be recouped through the congestion charge explained.
Having followed the subject closely over the recent months, I might as well come out and say straight away that I'm in favour of it becoming reality.
The expansion of the Metrolink to Ashton, East Didsbury, Wythenshawe, Manchester Airport, Oldham, Rochdale and the Trafford Centre would give thousands of people who currently use the car, the chance of coming into the city on public transport.
People who know me might say it's not surprising being that I don't drive myself, but it's about more than that.
Great cities depend on world-class public transport infrastructures. The money from the TIF will help build Manchester a network capable of supporting our growing city.
As I said in February, public transport across Greater Manchester isn't exactly the bees. It's got a long way to go before you could call it 21st century. But is congestion charging the only way to get the public transport system we need?
Unfortunately, I think it probably is.
The suggestion to sell off Manchester Airport to a private company, whilst headline grabbing, is not a good idea. The airport is one of the jewels in the crown for Greater Manchester and provides an enormous boost to the region's economy.
At the moment, the dividends paid to Manchester City Council and the nine borough councils (as shareholders of the airport) can be re-invested in the local area, rather than line the pockets of a multi-million pound corporation.
The current set up also allows the councils to have a direct input to the development of the airport. And they can make sure it continues to provide the routes and services that the local area needs for business and leisure.
Look at it this way. If you make the switch to public transport you'll benefit from the billions of pounds of investment and because you're not driving into the city, it won't cost you a penny in congestion charges!
It's up to you!
