Increase in tunnel toll approved

The rises will take effect in April

Motorists using the Mersey Tunnel must soon pay more for the privilege after members of the Passenger Transport Authority voted to increase the toll.

From 6 April car drivers using the Kingsway and Queensway tunnels between Liverpool and Wirral will be charged £1.40 - an extra 10p.

Class 2 vehicles, which include small goods vehicles and coaches, will pay £2.80 - a £1.50 rise.

Operator Merseytravel said the rise would help to tackle road congestion.

Six councillors voted for the price hike, four voted against and eight abstained.

Users disappointed

The rise was criticised by the Mersey Tunnels Users Association.

"Tunnel Users are disappointed that the toll increase will go ahead," a spokesman said.

"We are however pleased that only six councillors voted for it, as on previous occasions all but one of the councillors have voted for toll increases.

"The tolls are a barrier that divides the region, and our hope is that one day there will be no tolls to increase."

The tunnel tolls were last raised in 2005, when 10p was added to Class 1 charges, which cover cars and motorcycles.