The Transport Secretary has approved an increase in tolls for crossing the Tamar Bridge, despite ongoing lobbying to eliminate the charges. Following an independent inquiry last October, the toll for cars will rise from £2.60 to £3, while pre-paid Tamar Tag scheme users will face an increase from £1.30 to £1.50.

The Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee (TBTFJC) made an application to the government for a toll revision, which was agreed upon by Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander. The crossings are managed by the committee on behalf of Plymouth City Council and Cornwall Council, with tolls representing over 90% of their income. Due to lower traffic numbers post-COVID and rising costs, the committee is facing a £44 million debt that is growing by £200,000 per month.

The committee is seeking greater discounts for local residents and aims to raise tolls in line with inflation to prevent large increases in the future. Ultimately, they want the bridge to be government-funded, with tolls abolished. The inspector who conducted the inquiry described the evidence supporting the toll increase as “compelling,” acknowledging that without government funding, toll prices would inevitably rise.

Martin Worth, joint chair of the committee, expressed sympathy for those affected by the price increase but emphasized the necessity of the changes for long-term sustainability. For the first time in 60 years, there is a plan—Tamar 2050—which explores the possibility of toll abolition.

MPs from both Devon and Cornwall are calling for a revised toll system that would offer cheaper rates for local residents. Worth pointed to the devolution deal with Wales, which ended tolls on the Severn crossings, and hopes for a similar outcome in Devon and Cornwall. However, he noted that the push for greater public transport and cycling options has led to decreased revenue, which complicates funding for the crossings.

The Department for Transport confirmed that the toll increase is necessary for the continued operation of the services. The increase will take effect in at least 28 days. MPs like Luke Pollard and Fred Thomas have expressed support for the increase, seeing it as essential for maintaining the bridge and ferry services while ensuring that local residents benefit from discounted rates.

Anna Gelderd, MP for South East Cornwall, stressed the importance of focusing on delivering a fair deal for residents and businesses in the area, who are disproportionately affected by the tolls. The Tamar Bridge and ferry services are vital lifelines, and the focus must remain on ensuring their continued operation while providing residents with a fair deal.