Plans to scrap tolls on the Severn Crossings have been welcomed as an expected boost to the Welsh economy but evidence also indicates that the move may lead to increased traffic levels.

 

The two bridges are currently used by more than 25 million vehicles every year, with cars paying £6.70 per crossing and heavy goods vehicles charged £20. However from the end of 2018 these charges will be abolished for all vehicles, the Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns announced on Friday.

 

The Government estimates that the move will boost the economy of South Wales by around £100M a year while saving commuters, businesses, tourists and freight hauliers money. People who use the crossings every day stand to save a minimum of £115 a month.

 

“By ending tolls for the 25 million annual journeys between two nations we will strengthen the links between communities and help to transform the joint economic prospects of South Wales and the South West of England,” said Alun Cairns.

 

The Freight Transport Association’s head of policy for Wales and the South West commented that the announcement “heralds the death knoll of what are the most expensive tolls in the UK, representing a massive disincentive for inward investment and economic growth across the region”.

 

South Wales Chamber of Commerce president Liz Maher also welcomed the move, pointing out that the tolls have been an “artificial barrier” to trade from South Wales for too long.

 

However she noted that “scrapping the tolls will bring more traffic along the M4, especially around Newport”, highlighting the need for the proposed M4 Relief Road to be built.

 

Evidence from the Government – which consulted on reducing the toll prices earlier in the year – points towards similar consequences. Its analysis suggests that if the charges were to just be halved it would cause traffic to increase by around 17%. 

 

The Severn bridges are due come back under public ownership next year and will be operated by Highways England.

 

(Photo: Gareth Thompson and licensed for reuse under this Creative Common Licence)