Renewed calls for tolls on the Severn Bridges to be cut have been made following last month’s increase in charges.

Cars now pay £6.40 to cross into Wales while HGVs pay £19.20. A review of the tolls is expected in 2018 when the bridges will switch to public ownership.

Labour’s Jessica Morden, MP for Newport East, told the BBC: “When the bridges return to public ownership I would like to see the tolls reduced and some flexibility in the system so there is concession for local people and off peak travel for businesses.”

Simon Higgins, area manager of the Road Haulage Association in South Wales said: “The tolls are not doing the South Wales economy any good.”

Control of the bridges is currently in the hands of Severn River Crossing Plc, which increases tolls year on year in accordance with the Severn Bridges Act 1992. Income funds construction of the Second Severn Crossing as well as maintenance. But Mr Higgins added: “Money being brought in now is way above what is needed.”

The Freight Transport Association's policy manager for Wales Ian Gallagher said: "Come 2018 the tolls need to be reduced and there needs to be a desire to introduce free flow tolling, as is happening at the Dartford Crossing."

The Department for Transport said no decision has been taken on the future management or tolling arrangements of the Crossings after 2018. “However, any future arrangements will need to make proper provision for repayment of Government costs, future maintenance and reflect the needs of road users in both England and Wales,” a spokesperson said.

Photo: Arpingstone

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