P TOLLS
Page 20
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Let's take care of our local businesses by keeping our toll charges in check
THE FACT THAT tolls on the Severn are higher than elsewhere in the UK for most vehicles is patently unfair and no small cause of distress for many Freight Transport Association (FTA) members and other businesses dependent on this vital trade corridor.
However, following FTA pressure, the tide is turning in our favour.
Accompanied by Glenside Commercials and Owens Roads Services. the FTA went to see the Deputy First Minister of the Welsh Assembly Government, leuan Wyn Jones, to discuss the effect of the tolls on logistics in Wales (C)f 15 July).
The outcome of this was a commitment to commission a study into the real impact of the Severn tolls on local businesses in Wales (not a bad result given the economic climate).
There is further evidence that the industry is being listened to with the news that the Welsh Affairs Select Committee has also made investigating the impact of the Severn Crossing a top priority and that David Jones MP; the junior minister at the Wales Office, confirmed in writing to the FTA this week that he will escalate the concerns that we recently raised to him in person to the transport and business ministerial teams. For what amounts to little more than highway robbery, there is some light at the end of the tunnel, but we will keep up the pressure to prevent further irreparable damage being done to business in Wales and south west England.
Ian Gallagher
Head of policy for Wales Freight Transport Association