Dartford Crossing HGV charge set to rise 22%

According to recent statistics, hauliers face a 22% rise in the cost of using one of the most important roads in UK, as Dartford Crossing increased its tolls on 15 November.

Furthermore, the increase takes the cost of the Crossing for HGVs, or, in other words, multi-axle goods vehicles to £3.70, now £2.90. Vans will be charged £2, now £1.80. Nevertheless, not all charges are therefore going up: it is free to cross between 10pm and 6pm.  There will no longer be a charge for towing trailers.

When the Crossing itself was built, it was allegedly planned that tolls should still continue, but only until it was paid for. In addition to this, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is in fact among those who firmly believe that tolls ought to be scrapped completely, rather than increased.

Therefore, Natalie Chapman, Regional Policy Manager for London, adds:

“First and foremost, we do not see the point in continuing with the charge. It would certainly be more palatable if we knew where that money was going to. For instance, if it was to go on a new Thames Crossing, we would not be happy about it, but we would indeed stomach it.”

However, a spokesman for the Department of Transport claims that the tolls were scrapped, pointing out that charges are in place now, rather than tolls.

He adds:

“The tolls were replaced by charges, which are specifically intended to address congestion. Research has shown that traffic would increase by 17 %, i.e. if there were no charges at all.”