The FTA has criticised a one-month delay in the launch of the free flow tolls at Dartford Crossing, saying the hold-up will cause “unacceptable” extra administration costs for operators.
The Highways Agency (HA) made an announcement last Friday (19 September) revealing that the introduction of the new technology to allow motorists to use the crossing without stopping at barriers, would not be ready until late November. It was originally due to launch on 28 October.
FTA figures suggest the congestion caused by the current toll booths cost operators an estimated £1 per minute per HGV in running costs to queue at the Dartford tolls.
The two-stage rate increase was first announced in 2012 by the HA as a mechanism to pay for the roll-out of the new technology.
More details on registering for Dart Charge scheme can be found at www.gov.uk/highways/dartford
