Political leaders in the West Midlands have pledged to keep the public informed as they work up plans for road pricing in the region.
It follows the RAC Foundation's criticisms of Government plans for a national satellite-based congestion charge and calls for more work in explaining the policy to the public before it is introduced.
In a speech today, foundation chairman David Holmes will tell Transport Secretary Alistair Darling that road pricing has no chance of success unless the Government starts building support.
* What do you think? We want know - get in touch by email, messageboard or feedback form *
He will add there is danger that motorists will see road pricing as just another way to raise revenue rather than a genuine attempt to tackle congestion.
Other speakers at the Institute for Public Policy Research in London include Mr Darling.
The Government has said that it is keen to introduce road pricing but that it could be around ten years before such a scheme is brought in nationwide.
The seven West Midlands authorities have jointly applied for Transport Innovation Fund money from the Government to conduct a feasibility study into road pricing in the region.
It is understood it is the preferred pilot area because of the conurbation's size and the cross-party consensus the political mix controlling the seven councils would create for the policy prior to a national roll-out.
A spokesman for the region's TIF bid team said: "We want to see an open debate about the congestion problem, potential solutions and consequences of doing nothing.
"We are now bidding for money from Government to help us carry out a detailed study... Rest assured, we are committed to keeping the region informed."
