Mersey Tunnels Toll Increase Plans Receive Approval

From April, motorists paying with cash to use the Mersey Tunnels will face an additional charge of 20p per journey. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority confirmed that a one-way passage through the Kingsway and Queensway tunnels for class one vehicles, which includes the majority of cars, will be priced at £2.30. The authority stated that the increased income generated would be allocated towards initiatives aimed at alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing air quality, and encouraging the use of public transportation within the city region. John McGoldrick, representing the Scrap Mersey Tolls group, characterized the toll hike as “a disgrace.” The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that individuals residing in the area who possess a discounted T-Flow account will experience a 10p increase, bringing their fare to £1.50, as part of these proposals. The authority indicated that the Queensway and Kingsway tunnels necessitate annual investments totaling millions of pounds to ensure their continued operation and safety. It further noted a substantial rise in maintenance and electricity expenses, with electricity alone accounting for £2m annually. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram commented: “We’ve tried to find a delicate balance between increased running costs, the necessary investment that we need, continued improvement and treasury management.” Additionally, the authority verified an upcoming increase in ferry fares, also effective from April. A one-way ferry journey will see a 10p increment, reaching £3, and round trips will go up from £3.80 to £4.