But the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT) said that its support depends on the government's package to deliver substantial improvements to public transport before congestion charging is introduced.
The organisation has decided to adopt the stance after many of its members expressed their support for Greater Manchester to take full advantage of the £2.8bn TIF bid.
NWBLT said it recognises there are still some uncertainties regarding the precise costs and benefits of the proposed improvements, and their effect on different parts of the region.
Mike Blackburn, BT's north west regional director and the chair of NWBLT's transport group, said that the organisation believes that the `long-term' impact of the TIF investment will be beneficial. Mr Blackburn said: "The government's package of support amounts to £1,000 for every man, woman and child living in Greater Manchester today. Provided the infrastructure investment is in place before road pricing is introduced, we believe it is right that part of the cost should be borne by those who choose to travel by car at peak times."
NWBLT has also called on businesses to offer flexible working hours and travel plans for employees to reduce congestion.
Stuart Chambers, chief executive of glass giant NSG (Pilkington) and chairman of NWBLT, added: "We recognise that there is still a need for some further consultation to ensure the detailed proposals offer fair value. However, we believe that the TIF proposal will contribute strongly to the sustained long-term success of Greater Manchester and the north west."
Tweet
