WE would like to respond to two articles printed in The Bolton News - "More carriages needed on trains", (March 5) and "All modes of transport need to be improved", (March 12).

The GMPTA is in total agreement that the public transport infrastructure throughout our region must be continually reviewed and improved.

With respect to the proposals for a Greater Manchester congestion charge scheme, an improved public transport system is, in fact, one of the key requirements before any charging system is implemented.

Over the coming months, the GMPTA plans to carry out a wide and far-reaching consultation with the Greater Manchester public.

This consultation, with residents and businesses alike, will be carried out on detailed charging and investment proposals. It will provide everyone who has a stake in the subject with the chance to give their informed opinion about any proposals and will take place before any political decision is made about Greater Manchester moving forward with a Transport Innovation Fund bid in July.

Councillor Roger Jones, GMPTA and Councillor Cliff Morris