New bridge needs tough tolls to deter long-distance traffic

3.25.45pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 13th Aug 2003

Charges to use the proposed Thames Gateway Bridge must be set high enough to deter long-distance traffic and ensure local residents benefit from the project, said the London Assembly Liberal Democrats this week.

A report by the London Assembly's transport committee, chaired by Lib Dem Lynne Featherstone, has warned that the tolling system proposed by the Mayor's Transport for London fails 'to differentiate satisfactorily between local and long distance traffic'. This could 'encourage drivers from far and wide to consider the bridge as the best route between the Channel Ports, M25 and North Circular and M11'.

New bridge must not become another Dartford crossing

The proposed £2 charge would fail to deter long distance traffic: '…the premium imposed on long-distance through traffic - especially freight lorries - should be set at a level which will ensure that the Bridge does not become a second Dartford Crossing'.

Lynne Featherstone said: "We are broadly in support of the construction of a bridge. But it must not become a second Dartford crossing, attracting long-distance trucks from the Channel ports on their way to the Midlands and the North.

"There needs to be a really tough and flexible tolling regime to discourage long distance journeys. However, even doubling the current proposed toll would be unlikely to provide a sufficient deterrent.

"This bridge could significantly improve local Londoners' lives and bring regeneration and economic benefits to the surrounding areas. It cannot be allowed to become instead the biggest rat-run of all time."

ENDS

'Report on the Proposed Thames Gateway Bridge' can be viewed at http://www.london.gov.uk/assembly/reports/transport.jsp