Signs point the way to bridge approach
SIGNS displaying tolls prices and warnings have been installed on the approach roads to the Mersey Gateway bridge in Runcorn and Widnes.
Project bosses said they hoped the works would encourage any outstanding Halton drivers who have not registered for discounts to do so.
A Merseylink construction consortium spokesman said eligible Halton residents can avoid the charges by signing up for a Merseyflow account at www.merseyflow.co.uk.
Once registered and after paying a £10 annual administration fee, drivers from the borough will receive sticker containing a microchip to place in their car’s windscreen for detection when crossing to cross reference with the registration database to verify the vehicle can cross for free.
If Halton residents do not register, they will have to pay the full unregistered toll rate of £2 per journey, and could face a penalty charge notice of up to £60.
The bridge is due to open by mid-October weather permitting.
Tolls will come into force immediately.
If tolls are not paid by 11.59pm the day after crossing, a £20 penalty charge notice will be issued, which can rise to £60 if not paid on time.
Anthony Alicastro, Emovis Operations (Mersey) Ltd chief executive, said: “While more than 65,000 vehicles have already registered with us, there are thousands more which need to be registered for a merseyflow account.
“The merseyflow registration process is simple, and there are a variety of ways to sign up, with the website – www.merseyflow.co.uk – being the quickest method.”
David Parr, chief executive of Halton Borough Council and chief of the Mersey Gateway Crossings Board, said: “The council has worked hard to ensure the best possible discounts for Halton residents.
“If you are an eligible Halton resident and are not registered with Merseyflow, you will have to pay each time you cross the new Mersey Gateway Bridge – please don’t miss out.
“Register as soon as possible before the new bridge opens.”
To register with Merseyflow ● visit www.merseyflow.co.uk, call 01928 878 878, pop into the walk-in centre in Manor Park or the temporary walk-in centre at Halton Direct Link in Widnes.