Residents of Dartford and Thurrock are set to benefit from discounts for journeys over the Dartford Crossing, under proposals announced today by Transport Minister, Rosie Winterton.

Under the proposals, local people will be able to make 50 free journeys in a year. Once the free journeys are used up, the charge will be just 20p per crossing.

To benefit from the discount, residents will need to register annually and apply for an electronic "tag" to be displayed in their car's windscreen. The annual registration fee would be £10, the same local discount registration fee as the London Congestion charge. The discount will be available for private cars only.

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The consultation on these arrangements will begin in the next week and, subject to the outcome and the necessary technical work being completed in time, the system is expected to start in the Autumn.

Rosie Winterton said: "The Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing is a vital transport link for both the national and South East economies which has brought huge economic benefits and opportunities.

"In December 2006 we consulted on changes to the charging regime for the Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing. Local people made a strong case for a discount as a result of the impact the crossing has on local traffic and air quality and we have listened.

"If a positive response to this consultation is received we will make every effort to bring in the system as quickly as possible."

A further announcement about the precise start date for the new regime will be made at the end of the twelve-week consultation period.

The local discount scheme will not affect separate plans to offer discounts to anyone - including drivers who are not local residents - who choose to pay via an account using a 'DART-Tag'. These drivers will be able to use the crossing for the current £1 cash rate.

(GK/JM)