On Sunday,
7th October, the cost of using the Dartford Crossing rose from £1.50
for a car, to £2.00. Bearing in mind we were once promised that the day would
come when it would be free, this is not generally well received.
The
original tunnel opened in 1963 (coincidentally the year of my birth, although I
understand I’m more cost effective), with a second being added in 1980 and finally
the QEII Bridge becoming the new Southbound crossing in 1991. At each stage we
were told that once the crossing had been paid for, it would become free to
use. However, as time goes on, far from becoming free, charges continue to
rise, with another bringing the cost for cars to £2.50 planned for next year.
In certain
circumstances, crossing fees can potentially be suspended to ease congestion.
According to the Highways Agency website, “The conditions are that there has
been or is likely to be an emergency situation; where continuous queues of
stationary or slow moving traffic travelling under 10 mph extend back - or have
the potential to extend back - to the junctions 4 or 28 of the M25 or beyond;
and where the suspension of the charge would ease the congestion and assist in
managing the emergency situation.” Glad that’s clear then.
A ‘free-flow’
system is planned for 2014 – we will still have to pay, just not at the point
of crossing.
Until such
a time the agency does a u-turn and abolishes charges, there are ways to save
on crossing costs and there are also some exemptions from the charges.
By
purchasing a Dart Tag, you ‘only’ pay £1.33 to cross by car instead of the new
£2.00 charge. If you are a frequent user then this is a preferable way to pay –
you can apply for a tag online, or download an application form to send off
with your card details or cheque.
For those
resident in the Dartford/Thurrock Council boundaries, a £10 yearly registration
can be paid, enabling the holder to make 50 crossings at no extra charge, with
journeys over this amount costing just 20p. In order to apply for this you have
to be able to prove both car ownership and residency details.
Registered
disabled drivers who do not pay Vehicle
Excise Tax are rightfully exempt from charges.
What are
your views of the Dartford Crossing charges?
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