FTA blasts 'unreasonable' cost of Severn Crossing toll
Thursday 22 July 2010 Back to Blog
Van leasing customers will be happy to hear the Welsh Assembly has agreed to a study into the impact on businesses of the Severn Crossing toll.
However, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is now hoping to persuade the government at Westminster to follow suit.
It claims that the high toll price of the crossing is hampering freight businesses and goods transporters that frequently cross the river for work.
Ian Gallagher, FTA's head of policy for Wales, said: "Delivering goods and services between Wales and England is currently priced at a premium; this is unreasonable and has cost some of our members dearly."
He added that the current economic climate affecting many businesses meant the toll situation warrants "serious and urgent attention at the highest level".
The trade body has also suggested looking into a more flexible payment structure - for example, using a reduced rate for off-peak travel for commercial vehicles.
Goods vehicles up to 3,500Kg currently pay £10.90 to cross the bridge, with those over this weight being charged £16.40.