Crossing costs cut in Thurrock

The Government announced changes to its Local Resident Discount Scheme yesterday to offer the deal.

Under the current scheme, anyone living in the council tax areas of Dartford and Thurrock pays £10 for 50 crossings and 20p per crossing thereafter.

But, under changes to the system being brought in from next March, residents will pay a one off fee of £20, entitling them to as many trips as they wish.

In addition, to qualify for the cheaper rate, documentation will only need to be submitted every two years, rather than annually.

Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle Price said: “I am delighted the Secretary of State has been persuaded to make these concessions.

“I am particularly pleased the resident discount scheme will be extended to small vans.

“This will help a large number of Thurrock residents who require a van for their work.

“Regular users of the crossing will benefit from the option to pay £20 a year for unlimited crossings “I am proud to have delivered these changes, which will benefit hard-working people across Thurrock.”

According to the Government, there are more than 24,000 people signed up for discounts, with about 4,000 making more than 100 trips each year and 700 of them making more than 400 trips.

The changes will come into effect eight months before freeflow tolling is due to be introduced at the crossing, which will involve the removal of barriers.

People will then be able to pay before they cross, online, by phone, or at certain service areas.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “Local businessmen and women use the Dartford Crossing regularly to make deliveries into Essex and Kent.

“They are the backbone of British industry and that is why I am keen to find new ways we can make their lives cheaper and easier.

“At a cost of just over 5p a day, we will help thousands of small businesses keep their costs down, as well as saving money for those who currently belong to the resident discount scheme.”