Tamar Tolls
Tamar Tolls: Fighting for a Fairer Deal for South East Cornwall
The Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry are lifelines for South East Cornwall—used by thousands every day to access work, education, healthcare, and family. But for too long, local residents have carried an unfair financial burden, with tolls that hit harder in rural and lower-income communities.
I’ve made it a priority since being elected to fight for a fairer, more sustainable tolling system that puts local people first.
The Problem: Unfair and Unsustainable
Tamar Crossings currently receives no central government funding. Every penny for maintenance, repairs, and major infrastructure—like ferry replacement and bridge recoating—is raised through tolls. That’s unlike many other major crossings in the UK, which receive national support.
Over £66 million has been borrowed since 2004 to fund essential upgrades, and debt is forecast to rise to £85 million by the early 2030s. That debt is secured by toll income, much of which comes from the pockets of local residents.
In March 2024, a public inquiry approved a toll increase, despite overwhelming local opposition. I argued strongly against this decision, highlighting the disproportionate impact on South East Cornwall—where incomes are 20% below the national average and daily crossings are often a necessity, not a choice.
What I’m Fighting For:
✅ Lower tolls for local residents
I’ve urged the Tamar Bridge & Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee to cap the cost for TamarTag users—offering a fairer deal for people who rely on regular crossings. This could work like a travel card, with a maximum charge per day, week or month—similar to the London Underground fare cap.
✅ Transparent toll modelling
I’ve called for full transparency on where revenue goes, how borrowing is structured, and how local discounts could be delivered without undermining financial sustainability.
✅ Fair burden sharing
I believe the government should step in—whether through a devolution deal, infrastructure grants, or alternative funding models—to relieve the pressure on local toll payers and support the long-term future of the crossings.
✅ Preserving the ferry
The Torpoint Ferry is essential for many communities, especially those without access to a car or public transport alternatives. Any future strategy must guarantee its protection.
Local Voices Matter
Over 900 residents responded to my toll survey, sharing stories of the personal and financial strain tolls place on their lives. Whether it’s NHS staff crossing for shifts in Plymouth, students attending college, or carers supporting family across the river—these crossings are not optional. They are a necessity.
What's Next?
I will:
Continue pushing for a TamarTag toll cap
Press Ministers for a fair funding model
Advocate for a long-term toll strategy that protects residents and modernises the crossings
Hold the Joint Committee accountable for ensuring public money is spent wisely and fairly
“No one should be priced out of opportunity because of where they live.”
South East Cornwall deserves a transport system that works for people—not just balance sheets. I will keep standing up for local voices and fighting for a fairer, more affordable tolling system that recognises the reality of life on this side of the river.
Anna Gelderd MP
Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall