FTA disappointed at Dartford ‘free-flow’ toll delay

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has voiced its disappointment over the delay of the introduction of ‘free-flow’ tolls at Dartford River Crossing. Originally planned to be in place by the 28 October 2014, the Highways Agency has now said that the planned technology to allow motorists to use the crossing without having to stop at barriers and pay will now not be ready to use until late November.

FTA’s Head of Road Network Management Policy, Malcolm Bingham, said, ‘This is disappointing news that the free-flow tolling at Dartford is now to be delayed – the costs of this hold-up are unacceptable to the freight industry. FTA has been asking for a long time for this system to be introduced as this is the appropriate way forward in order to reduce a good deal of administration costs for the freight industry in dealing with tolls, charges and queues at the crossing.’