Reduction in tolls for drivers using Severn bridges

DRIVERS entering Wales via the two Severn bridges will see a significant reduction in the cost of the tolls today.

Vehicle charges will now be exempt from VAT, reducing the overall charge for individual crossings from £6.70 to £5.60 for cars, £11.20 from £13.40 for vans and £16.70 from £20 for large goods vehicles.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has now called on the UK Government to provide certainty to the industry with a clear date for when the toll will be removed altogether.

Ian Gallagher, FTA policy manager for Wales and the south west, said: “Today marks a turning point for users of the bridges, although the reduction by the rate of VAT has little impact on the business community which, in many cases, can reclaim this cost.

“The intended removal of all charges on the bridges by the end of this year is a welcome boost to logistics businesses in both the south west and South Wales already facing serious financial pressures.

“With the uncertainty of Brexit looming, anything which can help to boost business revenues is great news to keep economies on both sides of the Severn estuary trading effectively.”

Mr Gallagher said the money can be reinvested into UK businesses to upgrade fleets or upskill staff.

“At such an uncertain time for the logistics industry, the injection of capital previously used for the payment of tolls will go a long way to future-proofing those businesses which keep Wales and England trading.

“What’s required now is a commitment from Highways England to a date in 2018 when all charges will go, and for any business looking to invest along the M4 corridor, a guarantee that charges will not be reintroduced at some point in the future.”

Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said: “The UK Government’s decision to reduce the tolls will cut costs for commuters and tourists, and present exciting opportunities for businesses operating in Wales and over the border.

“I’m absolutely sure that reducing and then removing the tolls will boost Welsh employment and strengthen Wales’ position within the United Kingdom – that is why I made it my number one priority as Secretary of State.”

Clive Perkin, Highways England divisional director of strategy and planning, said: “We’re very proud to be taking over the responsibility for these iconic bridges which provide such important links between Wales and England.

“We’re also looking forward to welcoming staff currently employed by Severn Crossing PLC into Highways England.”

Staff currently employed with Severn Crossing PLC have all been offered employment with Highways England.

Phil Smith, chief executive officer of Severn River Crossing, said: “During the concession, Severn River Crossing has built the second Severn crossing, strengthened the Severn Bridge and successfully collected the tolls that have paid for this work to be done.

“These tasks have been achieved safely and responsibly by our employees. I would like to thank them for their diligent service.

“We can all feel proud that we are handing over the second crossing, and returning the Severn Bridge, in a good and well-maintained condition.

“We have worked with Department of Transport to ensure a smooth handover including all the detailed procedures we have used to manage the bridges.

“Finally, we would also like to thank our customers for their business and our suppliers for their service over the last 25 years.”