Fleet operators urged to register for Dartford Crossing scheme07 November 2014

A new payment system for the Dartford Crossing will come into effect on 30 November. The Highways Agency has announced that final cash payments will be taken at 10pm on 29 November, with a new remote payment system coming into effect the following day.

Commercial fleets are being urged to sign up for a pre-payment account option – the website is now open for registrations at www.gov.uk/dart-charge.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is calling for priority to be given to commercial fleet registrations, as the deadline is approaching for the introduction of the new 'free-flow' system.

Malcolm Bingham, FTA's head of road network management policy, says the FTA welcomes the move, but "we also recognise that this has come at a difficult time for the freight and logistics industry – being the busiest time of year in the run-up to Christmas".

He adds: "We will therefore, be looking for priority for commercial fleet registration."

His view is echoed by John Pryor, chairman of ACFO, a not-for-profit organisation representing operators of car and van fleets.

"ACFO remains concerned that the Highways Agency has only been able to give a little over three weeks' notice of the introduction of the new remote charging system," says Pryor.

"That means fleet decision-makers must work quickly to ensure they have policies and procedures in place, and clearly communicate those and the details of the Dartford Crossing changes to all drivers."

Charges will increase from 30 November but pre-payment accounts will still secure a discount, as with the current Dart-Tag service. Discounted charges for two-axle vehicles will increase to £2.63, and for multi-axle vehicles to £5.19.

Drivers will also be able to use a pay-as-you-go method, paying online or at selected retail outlets by midnight on the day following use of the crossing.

Author
Laura Cork

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