Free flow tolling could be introduced on the Severn Crossings as early as next year. Proposals set out by the Government would see toll barriers removed when the two bridges are returned to public ownership.

 

The change would see vehicles charged for using the bridges both ways, rather than just to enter Wales as is the case at present. Charges to use the bridges are set to come down by at least half, with cars paying £3 rather than the current £6.70. Introduction of free flow tolling in each direction would allow the new lower prices each way to be halved again.

 

Monmouth MP David Davies, whose constituency lies just to the west of the crossings welcomed the announcement. “I am delighted by the news,” he said. “The Welsh Affairs Committee, which I chair, has been a longstanding champion of a reduction in toll charges. In an ideal world I would like to see tolls scrapped altogether but I accept the ongoing maintenance costs of the bridges need to be covered.”

 

He added that installation of an electronic pre-pay system using number plate recognition – similar to that seen at the Dartford Crossing – is “a key issue, as reducing the tolls is likely to increase traffic levels and could lead to even bigger queues on the toll plaza”.

 

Freight Transport Association spokesman Ian Gallagher said: “We welcome the commitment to halve the tolls again if charging is introduced both ways. However we will continue to lobby for further reductions and incentives for hard pressed operators. The Severn Crossing is a vital artery linking Wales with England and trading routes on into Europe. These savings will ensure that businesses on both sides of the Severn can continue to trade at the most competitive rates with their customers.”

 

Federation of Small Businesses Wales policy chair Janet Jones commented: “We very much welcome the UK Government’s consultation on the future of Severn Bridge tolls. For many years the significant level of tolls has been an issue of concern to both large and small businesses and placed significant costs on those businesses who use it regularly.”

 

She added: “While the reduction of tolls is very important adopting ‘free flow’ technology for their payment to reduce what are currently often significant delays at the toll plaza must also be a priority and we welcome that this is contained within the consultation.”

 

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