Dartford Crossing Consultation

 As most readers will be aware, the Department of Transport has launched a consultation on the future of the Dartford Crossing and its charging regimes. This consultation concludes on 23^rd September 2011 and people can join me by making their views known on this issue in a number of ways. The Department accepts representations through their web site or by letter. In addition, I will be hosting a meeting on the 9^th September at 5pm in Dartford for residents to share their views on the consultation with a representative from the Highways Agency.  A representative from the Department for Transport has also been invited.

I believe the Crossing should be free for all users. The people of Dartford were promised that the Crossing would be free once the bridge had been paid for. This happened in 2003. The tolls stifle commerce in the local area and act as another form of taxation on the motorist.

There are strong views in Dartford concerning the Crossing so the Department’s decision to prioritise tackling the congestion is to be welcomed. There must not be a repeat of what took place several years ago when the tolls were increased but nothing was done about the congestion.

The crossing could be a positive thing for Dartford, instead it is Dartford’s nemesis.

The removal of the toll booths, as planned, are a step in the right direction. This measure will tackle the congestion and pollution in the area. It will not however tackle the cost to the motorist.

At the last General Election I indicated that I could never support the continuation of the tolls on the Dartford Crossing. This is a view I maintain. I therefore oppose the proposed increases in the tolls and maintain that the tolls should be scrapped in their entirety.

My full response to the consultation and details of how to submit your response to it can be found on my website at: http://www.garethjohnsonmp.co.uk and I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the consultation and submit their views to the Department for Transport.  If you would like more information about the meeting please contact my office on 0207 219 7047.