Anger voiced over unequal crossing tolls
LABOUR’S candidate for Weaver Vale has slated a Conservative pledge to scrap tolls on the Severn Bridge but not for motorists crossing the Mersey between Runcorn and Widnes.
Mike Amesbury said Prime Minister Theresa May has predicted a £100m economic boost by ditching charges to cross the Severn.
He said this was despite the Tories refusing to extend a concessionary scheme for the Mersey Gateway and Silver Jubilee Bridge that will allow Halton borough drivers living in properties below Band G to enjoy free passage.
Thousands of motorists in Cheshire and Merseyside were left fuming last year when the Government revealed discounts would not be rolled out to neighbouring local authorities.
Mr Amesbury said: “The Tories are now proposing to scrap tolls on the Severn Bridge and every year forgo over £100m of Government revenue but they still ● expect most motorists in Weaver Vale constituency to pay £1,080 in annual toll fees to cross the Mersey at Runcorn.
“I have to ask the question why Graham Evans should be happy to support abolishing tolls for 25m annual journeys across the Severn when, this autumn, most people in Weaver Vale are facing tolls to leave the constituency at Runcorn.”
He added: “I fear an economic boot for Weaver Vale, not a boost.
“Before the last General Election Graham Evans said if he was re-elected he would be banging on the Chancellor’s door calling for toll exemptions for Weaver Vale residents but he has been decidedly quiet on tolls ever since.
“We should have free concessions for all Weaver Vale residents, something that could be done at a fraction of the cost of making the Severn free to use.”