Officials Warn Rising Tolls May Reduce Bridge Usage

A report from the Mersey Gateway Crossings Board (MGCB) warns that fewer motorists may use the Mersey Gateway and Silver Jubilee bridges if a proposed 20% toll increase is approved. The increase would raise the cost of a single crossing from £2 to £2.40 and fines from £40 (£20 if paid within 14 days) to £50.

Halton Borough Council's ruling executive board has backed the plans, which come amid a six-week consultation period. If approved, the changes would take effect in April 2025 after a vote by the full council next February.

Merseyflow, which manages the tolling scheme, reported that over 6.74 million crossings occurred between July and September this year, with approximately 50,000 fines issued each month. The revenue from these fines amounted to £800,000 monthly, contributing to around 20% of total revenue.

However, the council's report indicated that the toll increase "would not lead to a 20% increase in projected revenues." It suggested that motorists might reconsider their travel plans, potentially opting for different routes or modes of transport, leading to a slight decrease in crossings after the toll hike.

The Mersey Gateway, opened in 2017, has been operating at a financial loss in its early years and relies on government grants and toll charges for funding. A scheme allowing Halton residents unlimited crossings for £10 annually will remain unchanged by the proposed increases.