Geraldine Coggins, the Green Party candidate for Manchester mayor, is advocating for ‘car-free’ Sundays as part of a broader initiative to reduce car dependency in the region. This proposal stems from her involvement in a council taskforce that explored various strategies to promote sustainable transport and enhance pedestrian-friendly spaces.
The taskforce’s recommendations include introducing pedestrian-only days and implementing parking charges that vary based on vehicle size. Coggins argues that these measures could significantly improve air quality and public safety, addressing the alarming number of serious injuries on Greater Manchester roads.
As the mayoral election approaches, Coggins’ stance reflects a growing trend among urban planners to prioritise public transport and cycling over car usage. This shift could reshape daily commuting patterns, potentially leading to reduced traffic congestion and lower living costs for residents.
The upcoming election on July 30 will test whether these green initiatives resonate with voters, especially as Labour and Reform UK present contrasting views on transport policies. The outcome may signal a significant change in Greater Manchester’s approach to urban mobility and environmental sustainability.
Source: GB News
