The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has expressed concern that the local economy could suffer if Belfast City Council introduces Congestion Charges and Road Tolls.

Belfast City Council made the proposal in a submission to the Department of Finance & Personnel as part of a review into possible changes to the rates. A recent FSB survey found that vehicles are crucial to over 90% of businesses and 70% could not reduce their usage.

-- Advertisement --

Wilfred Mitchell, FSB Policy Chairman said: "Transport, especially road transport, is fundamental to business. Almost half of small businesses carry out their trade within twenty miles of their base and congestion charges would have a detrimental effect on them.

"Businesses across Northern Ireland who regularly trade or make deliveries to Belfast City Centre will face a considerable financial burden in the running of their business. Many of these businesses are already paying extremely high insurance, energy and rates bills."

(CL)