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Perhaps our tolls should pay...
Page 26
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VERY INTERESTING that the Highways Agency should react to the Freight Transport Association's suggestion that, in order to keep the Dartford Bridge open during storm conditions, windshields should be fitted by saying that "...engineers would have to do extra work on the foundation.This would cost an extra £10 million." (CM 27 January).
The government originally told toll-paying road users that when the construction costs had been fully paid. which was achieved in 2002, the crossing would become toll-free. Of course, like so many promises from government, the law was changed and the tolls continue to be collected.
In fact, the tolls continue to be collected to the tune of £60m per year!
Here's a novel idea:perhaps the Highways Agency should consider funding the windshield work out of that? The bridge is sited on the busiest and most important motorway in the country and delays caused by closures put substantial extra costs on industry and motorists.
I look forward to the work beginning as soon as possible..
Geoff Dossetter External affairs director Freight Transport Association