LizRenshaw

Today I have been reading a news article about Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge toll, which is set to rise to £1 in late 2012. I personally think that this will have a huge impact on the local economy, especially as it is a popular shortcut between Leigh Woods and Clifton.

A rise of 50p may not seem like such a dramatic increase to some, but if you’re a commuter travelling over the bridge on a regular basis, it will certainly make a significant change to your daily travel costs. Logistics organisations in particular, whose very businesses rely on the roads, will no doubt be affected by this.

If the proposal is approved by the Department of Transport, the roll rise will be enforced later this year.

There are reports stating that regular users could invest in a prepaid crossing card which will save them money, but will it in the long run?

Statistics have shown that the number of drivers using the bridge over the last several years has fallen by 20%, with many choosing to take longer routes in order to avoid paying the toll.  Because if this, I will not be surprised if we see a further decrease if this proposal goes ahead. 

A spokesperson for the National Alliance against Tolls said; "...We feel the toll money shouldn't be spent on bridge illuminations or visitor centres which have nothing to do with the cost of crossing”.

They also encouraged anyone with concerns or oppositional views towards the toll rise to voice their concerns now, fearing that without opposition the rise will go ahead unchallenged.

This however, is not what the trustees of Brunel’s iconic bridge claim. Instead, they suggest that this proposal is purely to provide funding for vital repair work, as they are a charitable trust and therefore get no funding from the local authorities, lottery or government.

As we are a specialist agency within Logistics and deal with candidates and organisations all over the UK, we are fully aware of the impact toll prices have in regards to candidate’s decisions on vacancies.  I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this matter?

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-17028359