CROSSING CHARGE QUESTIONS

The accounts for the Dartford River Crossing have shown that tolls from the Bridge and Tunnels raised nearly £4.5 million less in 2007-08 than they did in the previous year.  The audited figures have only recently been published and show that the net proceeds from the Crossing in the last financial year were £42.9 million – down from £47.3 million in the twelve months to 31 March 2007.  Income from road users fell by nearly £2 million.

The figures raise new questions over the timing of recent increases in charges at the Crossing.  Last November, the cash toll for a car or light van to use the Bridge or the Tunnels was increased from £1 to £1.50.  Ministers maintain that charges are to manage congestion even though the number of vehicles using the Crossing is at its lowest level since 2002/3.

Commenting, Hornchurch & Rainham MP James Brokenshire said:

“Despite the assurances of Government Ministers, it is difficult not to draw a link between the slump in income and the increase in charges.  They argue that the charges were intended to control congestion, yet vehicle movements have been falling and are likely to fall further because of the down-turn in the economy.  It doesn’t stack up.

“The charges were intended to pay for the cost of the construction of the QE2 Bridge.  These costs have been paid in full for several years now and even if there is an argument on congestion management, the increase in charges isn’t justified and should be scrapped.  The Crossing wasn’t intended as a cash cow for the Treasury yet this is precisely what it seems as if it is being used. Motorists and small businesses are paying the price.”

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