Joint Committee backs vital next step in plans to improve convenience for users and reduce crossing times on Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry.

Members of the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee have welcomed the findings of a report into the introduction of Open Road Tolling as a vital next step in their aims of improving traffic flow and reducing journey times on the Bridge and the Ferry.

The investigation into the potential for introducing Open Road Tolling (ORT) at the crossings is part of the Tamar 2050 programme which is looking at new ways of funding and operating the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry.

The report, which was produced by consultants following extensive consultation with key stakeholders, concludes that it would be possible to introduce ORT at both crossings. The use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) rather than the current system of tolls booths would help to reduce queuing and traffic emissions, and improve journey times, as well as bringing economic benefits over the long term.

The report notes that significant highways works would be required where the Bridge joins the A38 Parkway . Designing and implementing these changes, together with other measures needed to support the introduction of the new system, could result in costs of between £8.7m and £16.2 million depending largely on the preferred highway configuration option. It suggests that further work is required to develop a detailed business case which can then be used to support bids for external funding for the scheme.

Supporting the recommendation to commission a further report which includes an outline business case and funding strategy for ORT, Joint Chairs Martin Worth and Jon Dingle, said “The Joint Committee is committed to the principle of Open Road Tolling ”.

“During the past few months we have secured the support of the Peninsula Transport Board which has now formally recognised Open Road Tolling at the crossings as a strategic project. We also continued to lobby the previous Government to provide financial support for the crossings. Following the general election we are already engaging with the new MPs in Cornwall and Plymouth and will be seeking their support in pressing our case with the new Government.

“In the meantime, however, we need to continue with developing our plans to introduce Open Road Tolling at the crossings so we are in a strong position to bid for funding in the future.”

At its March 2024 meeting, the Joint Committee resolved to meaningfully explore the possibility of toll abolition. Addressing the highways issues associated with introducing Open Road Tolling at the Tamar Bridge would

support the technical feasibility of toll abolition, which would require an Open Road without Tolls.

Following the meeting, a Phase 2 Open Road Tolling Study will be commissioned with the costs met from existing budgets. The study will include an outline business case and funding strategy.