The idea
When the Dartford crossing was completed in the early '90s we were told that the toll would be last until 2005. In that year it was still there and in 2008 it was increased!! Admittedly, it is not charged between 10.00 p.m. and 6.00 am, but it is there for the rest of the day.
A "Dart Tag" cuts the coost, but there is no dedicated lane, so the time to go through is not helped.
The traffic james either side of the crossing must cause huge expense to individuals and businesses in the south east.
What is needed is a way of ensuring the traffic flows. Simple – do away with the toll!
If that is not economically viable, then make everyone using the crossing either pay the toll in advance at a service station or layby, or have a card like the "Dart Tag". Do away with the barriers so the traffic flows. There is no need to have barriers – just look at Sydney!!
If that cannot be, reinstate the dedicated lanes for "Dart Tag" holders.
Why is it important?
It is important because the delays caused by the toll barriers create extra pollution, cost individuals and business extra money in wasted fuel, and block access and egress to two of the biggest shopping areas of the east southeast – Bluewater and Lakeside.