Essex drivers win toll concession

19 November 2008

Essex County Council says it has won a partial victory for local motorists following the announcement by the Department for Transport this week that residents in Thurrock will get discounted use of the tolled Dartford Crossing.

Under government proposals, Thurrock residents will be able to make 50 free journeys a year, and be charged only 20p per crossing thereafter.

However, the council argues that all residents should benefit from the proposals. Lord Hanningfield, leader of the council, said: ‘This is terrific news for Thurrock, but what about the rest of Essex? The county council has been campaigning for years for recognition that Essex motorists, wherever they live in the county, have been unjustly penalised.’

The council argues that the crossing was originally planned to be free but instead makes £50M ‘in pure profit every single year, which goes straight to the Treasury.’

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