PROPOSALS to reintroduce tolls on the Warburton Toll Bridge near Lymm have been postponed, allowing more time for local residents to register for a 50 per cent discount.
A decision to increase tolls from 12p to £1 in each direction to help fund future maintenance works met with a huge outcry after the bridge owners, The Manchester Ship Canal Company, secured approval from the Department of Transport to increase the toll charges after a public inquiry.
The charges were set to resume today but Lymm Cllr Graham Gowland said: “The start of toll charging at Warburton Toll Bridge has been postponed – so for now you can continue to use the bridge free of charge.
“When charging does begin, residents in WA3 6, WA13 9 and M31 4 postcodes will be able to register for a 50% discount (if their vehicle is registered to their address). Blue Badge holders will also be able to apply for concessions.
“You can find the latest updates and register in advance here warburtontollbridge.co.uk
“I’ll keep pushing for clear communication and fair treatment for local residents.”
Charging was suspended last September while works were carried out on the bridge. There has been much controversy about the toll charges being increased from 12p to £1, to help fund ongoing maintenance works, with local residents able to apply for a 50 per cent discount scheme.
Announcing the decision earlier today, a spokesperson for the Warburton Toll Bridge Team said: “The commencement date for toll charging has been postponed. We recognise that, due to time constraints and limited access to the online portal, some residents and other individuals eligible for concessions have not yet been able to register and submit the necessary documentation.
“No charges are currently being applied, so you can continue to use the bridge free of charge for now, and we will give notice as to when charges will begin. This postponement provides extra time for everyone to register, especially residents, Blue Badge holders, and those eligible for exemptions and applications for Blue Badge holders and residents will be available within the next few weeks, ensuring that everyone entitled to a concession can apply before charges start.
“This short delay means no one will miss out on the concessions they are entitled to.
“All future updates will be published on this website, and for any enquiries, please submit your query via the Contact Us form.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
