(Image Credit: David Wright)
Graham Stuart, MP for Beverley and Holderness, who has campaigned for the Humber Bridge tolls to be reduced or even scrapped, today welcomed news the Government was making £6 million available.
The cash will allow the Humber Bridge Board to continue maintaining the iconic structure while not falling into arrears with debt repayments for at least the next 18 months.
Graham said: “This is a classic case of winning the battle, but not the war.
“I am delighted the Transport Minister, Sadiq Khan, has pledged this money to the bridge. He seems to have taken on board the strength of feeling on this subject and he has already met with several groups in relation to the tolls.
“While he has indicated he will not be making any hasty decisions on the future of the tolls or the bridge I hope to make a strong case to him when we meet in just over a week’s time.”
Graham believes the toll should be abolished completely, or reduced to just £1 per car journey, to help the local economy.
Announcing the money Mr Khan said: "The Humber Bridge is a vital transport link between North Lincolnshire and East Riding which has and continues to provide many opportunities and benefits.
“The Government is committed to doing everything it can to protect communities and businesses from the economic downturn, and to help the country recover. That is why I recently decided not to accept the Humber Bridge Board's proposed toll increase.”