Key facts
- Andy Burnham's campaign for the Makerfield by-election is being affected by past policy decisions.
- The abandoned Clean Air Zone (CAZ) project in Greater Manchester cost over £100 million.
- The CAZ was scrapped due to significant public opposition and mistrust.
- Burnham's campaign is attempting to address the CAZ issue by highlighting compliance and funding for upgrades.
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester and candidate for the Makerfield by-election, is facing scrutiny over past policy decisions, particularly the abandoned Clean Air Zone (CAZ) project. While his campaign highlights achievements in economic growth and public services, the CAZ, which cost over £100 million and would have charged up to £60 daily for polluting vehicles, has become a significant point of contention. Public opposition led to its scrapping, with sources describing it as Burnham's "biggest mistake" and a source of mistrust. His campaign has attempted to preemptively address the issue by stating the area is compliant and funding was used for upgrades. The situation has drawn comparisons to Boris Johnson, and Burnham faces potential leadership challenges within the Labour party from figures like Wes Streeting, Angela Rayner, Yvette Cooper, and Ed Miliband.