Although the bridges are popular for motorists, the tolls on both Severn Crossings have been seen as an economic and symbolic barrier to Wales’ future prosperity, the government says.
It is estimated that this announcement would boost the economy of South Wales by around £100 million a year.
Alun Cairns, Secretary of State for Wales, says: “By ending tolls for the 25 million annual journeys between two nations we will strengthen the links between communities and help to transform the joint economic prospects of South Wales and the South West of England.”
He added that when the bridges come under public ownership, they will be run by Highways England. Previously it has been run by Severn River Crossing.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling says that people who use the crossing every day will save a minimum of £115 a month.
According to the FTA, it currently costs £20 for an HGV to cross into Wales and £13.40 for a van.
Ian Gallagher, head of policy for South West and Wales Freight Transport Association, says: “Removal of the tolls altogether has been a long-term policy position for the Freight Transport Association, with members on both side of the bridges incurring some of the highest tolls charges in the UK, money better spent on upskilling, recruitment and purchasing greener vehicles.”
Road Haulage Association chief executive Richard Burnett says that he is guardedly optimistic about the move; although positive about the savings to motorists, he worries about increases in volumes of traffic. He explains: “When the tolls end, it is inevitable that the traffic on the crossings will increase considerably as those motorists and operators who have seen the tolls as a deterrent begin to cross the river at these points. Although the new measures will leave money in the pockets of those using the crossings, it will be a false saving if the infrastructure is unable to cope with the increase in traffic volume.”
The first Severn Bridge was opened in September 1966, providing a direct link from the M4 motorway into Wales, with a toll in place for use of the bridge to pay for the cost of construction. It continually operated above capacity and in 1986 the then Government stated that a second bridge would be constructed.
In 1988 it was announced that tenders would be invited from private consortia to fund, build and operate the second bridge and take over the operation of the first bridge. In 1990 the concession was awarded to Severn River Crossing. Construction work also started in April 1992 and the second bridge was opened in June 1996.