A new congestion charge scheme for Manchester could be a positive move for the housing market, according to one property professional.

Paul Collins, the property editor of BuyAssociation, states that if people find it easier to access their properties as a result of the charging scheme''s impact on congestion, "then that''s obviously a good thing".

Mr Collins also argues that a main area where residents can benefit would be through improvements to public transport. Under the proposals, £3 billion will be invested by the government''s Transport Innovation Fund to develop local transport services.

Describing developments in the public transport infrastructure as "the key to it all", the property editor said the proposed investment "should do a lot of good".

The congestion charge would be implemented through establishing two cordons, the first would cover Manchester city centre and the second would apply to Greater Manchester''s urban areas.

The property editor adds that improved systems in other locations have benefitted property prices on a local level.

"We''ve seen in other cities – particularly in London – that if you’ve got a good public transport network then prices will go up, so it should be a real help," Mr Collins states.