FTA calls for M6 Toll rate to stay low
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The operator of the M6 Toll has refused to say whether it will extend its discount for trucks — Jennifer Ball reports.
MIDLAND EXPRESSWAY has refused to confirm if it will continue its discounted rate for trucks using the M6Tol1 when the present deal expires on 31 December.
The Freight Transport Associafion has called on the toll operator to extend its price reduction for trucks amid fears that truck traffic using the toll road will revert to pre-discount levels.
FTA Midlands regional policy manager,Colin Hagan has written to MEL pressing the case for a low toll level: -We would urge you to maintain the present levels to allow operatois to plan and budget accordingly, with a greater degree of certainty that they can have at present." The FTA says that only when the toll is priced at a competitive level will hauliers consider using the M6 Toll as a matter of course.
MEL MD Tom Fanning says it is aware of the FTA's views; he adds that take-up by hauliers has been encouraging: "There has also been a significant increase in the number who have chosen to open a tag account with us — the electronic payment system that allows vehicles to pass through a toll station without stopping.
"The trial has two months to run, but we will be looking at a range of options and will make our intentions clear well before the end of the trial on 31 December 2004."