Over half of Rochdale fail to vote in transport referendum

congestion on M62 motorway at Heywood

Less than half the population of Rochdale and the adjacent Pennines has voted in the Greater Manchester transport referendum, it has been revealed.

Rochdale Borough Council claims only 38.8% have cast their vote on the congestion charge which could hit Manchester, the second most congested city in the country, in the coming months.

But there is still time to return your ballot papers, as the deadline is this Thursday (11 December) at 10pm.

Councillor Irene Davidson, acting leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “There are only days left to register your vote so please make sure you get the facts, find out how the proposals would affect you and have your say. Whether you’re in favour or against, it’s important that you exercise your democratic right and take part in the referendum.” 

Councillor Davidson's calls were backed by the Yes campaign.

“Thursday is the last chance for people in the town to make sure they get an extension of the tram into the heart of the town,” said chairman Lis Phelan. “It is also the last chance to vote for extra buses, capped bus fares and a 20% reduction in fares on public transport for low paid workers.

“I urge those people who have yet to vote to make sure that they visit Rochdale Town Hall before 10pm on Thursday or catch the last post and make sure their vote counts. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to transform public transport in the borough.”

For help with your ballot pack or for a replacement ballot paper, you can call the Office of the Returning Officer free on 0800 783 9828. For information about the proposals and what they mean for the Rochdale borough, see www.rochdale.gov.uk