November 13, 2009
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News: UK Bridges Will Soon Take Plastic
As in the United States, UK drivers of the toll bridges do not have the capabilities of paying for tolls via credit card. Toll roads and bridges accept cash or offer some sort of electronic gadget that is preloaded with funds and scans as the driver passes by the toll gate. Of course, the frequent traveler has the capabilities of paying for the toll pass device and the toll pre-load via credit card. However, the occasional driver who does not have such a device must assure he has cash on him at all times. That will soon change for travelers along the two Severn (SRC) bridges between south Wales and England. It is expected that new rules to follow will soon allow debit and credit card payment at the Severn crossings.
A working group consisting of representatives from the Highways Agency, SRC, the Welsh Assembly Government and the select members of the UK Government was formed to evaluate and if possible develop a plan that would accommodate debit and credit card payment. After two years of work, the special committee has finally established that it is feasible to accept card payment at the crossings. Accordingly, legislation has been introduced that would allow Severn crossings to accept debit and credit card payment. In a statement released by Jim Clune, General Manager of the SRC, the measure must first be approved by Parliament or signed by the Secretary of State before it would be official. In the meantime, much work needs to be done to prepare the toll booths for the system.
A major step forward in reaching their goal, Mr. Clune indicated that discussions have already begun between the banks and the credit card payment processing device suppliers. However, Clune said it will be at least eight months before the system is in place and up and running. Nothing can begin to happen until the amendment to legislation that regulates the management of the bridges has been approved. After this has been done, an approximate date can be set.