FTA “deeply disappointed” in M6 toll increases
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has said it is “deeply disappointed” in Midlands Expressway Limited’s decision to increase prices on Birmingham’s M6 toll road.
The FTA said the move could drive more HGVs through Birmingham, which would run counter to the city’s clean air agenda.
Chris Yarsley, FTA’s Policy Manager for the Midlands, commented: “While increases in transport costs are always unwelcome to the freight industry, this announcement is particularly concerning due to its impact on Birmingham’s clear air agenda. The fee increase will encourage some HGVs to abandon the motorway and use those running through Birmingham itself. At a time when air quality in the city is a key priority for civic leaders – the Clean Air Zone consultation launches this week – we ask this decision be reconsidered for the greater good.”
Yarsley added: “While the toll increase is within inflation, the alternatives are free, so it will encourage more long-distance movements to use the traditional M6 through Birmingham. The M6 is a key route for UK logistics, and more effort should be made to encourage freight operators to utilise the tolled route away from the urban centre.”
The new M6 toll charges will apply from 6am on 30 July 2018. Prices will rise by 20p-50p for HGVs (depending on the journey made), by 30p – 50p for cars, and by 10p-30p for light goods vehicles. Prices will remain the same for night time journeys for all light and heavy goods vehicles.
