Toll charges at the Dartford Crossings could become cheaper thanks to the Lower Thames Crossing, the Dartford Council Leader told the News Shopper.
Councillor Jeremy Kite welcomed the Government’s decision to build the crossing away from Dartford, splitting traffic flow.
He said: “What is often overlooked is the talk of new pricing.
A second crossing will give people the choice on how to go about their days, splitting traffic.”
The Dartford Crossing made £161 million last year, up £60 million from the year before.
“I think a second crossing changes the managing of flows, and there could be differential pricing to change the behaviour of drivers.
“It is another lever to pull.”
The council leader admitted that while the decision is welcome, there is still work to be done to ease the short-term problems in Dartford.
“Of course, today’s decision still leaves an enormous concern about the congestion at Dartford for up to a decade until the new crossing opens
“We have to carry on developing what we have. It could take up to 10 years to build the crossing and that is a long time.
“I think the crossing has got better but it is still susceptible to accidents. There should be a major investment in the layout and there is still work to be done about air quality.
Despite these concerns, the council leader spoke of the relief the decision will bring for Dartford residents.
“This is optimistic for Dartford. The people can see they have been listened to.
“There may be an inevitable rise in traffic but eventually the scenario will be completely different.”
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