Overview

• From September 1, one-off charges will increase by £1 to £3.50 for cars, £4.20 for vans and coaches, and £8.40 for multi-axle lorries.
• Registered local residents and account holders will receive discounted rates with annual crossings capped at £25.
• Opponents including RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding and regional MPs say the 40% hike functions primarily as a revenue-raising measure.
• Crossings will continue to be toll-free between 10 pm and 6 am to ease off-peak traffic pressure.
• A government-funded Lower Thames Crossing expected by 2030 aims to provide long-term relief for the overcapacity route.