Bridge toll centre reopens
THE Mersey Gateway walk-in centre has re-opened for drivers to pay for crossing the bridge and other enquiries.
Tolls operator merseyflow has advised customers to expect longer waiting times due to social distancing and hygiene measures aimed at ensuring staff and motorists keep two metres apart where possible.
A merseyflow spokeswoman said this will cut its operating capacity to 50%.
Visitors are also encouraged to wear suitable face coverings.
Merseyflow has urged customers to continue to use its website for registering or renewing passes and paying charges where possible.
Other safety measures include staff wearing personal protection equipment where appropriate, someone limiting entry at the door, and the installation of hand sanitisers.
Customers whose Halton Resident or Blue Badge Plans were due to renew during the last two months had their plans automatically extended during the height of the lockdown.
Merseyflow said it has contacted these customers directly, and encouraged them to renew their plans online July 1.
The walk-in centre, on Howard Road in
Manor Park, Runcorn, is open under the same reduced hours as merseyflow’s call centre: Monday to Saturday, 9am-5.30pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm.
She said the centre was eligible to re-open under the permission granted by the Government to the latest wave of ‘nonessential’ retailers allowed to return to work.
Neil Conway, chief executive of merseyflow, said: “We would like to ask our customers to only visit the walk-in centre if absolutely necessary. If you are paying for a journey you can use the merseyflow quick pay app or www. merseyflow.co.uk which are operating 24/7 as always. If you are paying a PCN (penalty charge notice), registering for an account or renewing a plan it is very straight forward to also do this on our website.
“We know that our walk-in-centre is popular with some customers who struggle with digital technology.
“However, I would encourage anyone who is in the vulnerable category or has been shielding to use the merseyflow website or call us on 01928 878 878 rather than visit, and we will do our best to resolve any issues without you having to make a trip in person.”