Motorists using the Dartford Crossing will soon face higher toll charges, as government ministers move to increase the fee in a bid to “manage demand and protect the crossing.”
From September, the standard charge for cars will rise from £2.50 to £3.50 per crossing — a 40% increase — for those paying without a pre-registered account. Drivers with a DART account, which offers a discounted rate, will also see an increase, with charges rising from £2.00 to £2.80.
The Dartford Crossing — comprising the QEII Bridge for southbound traffic and the Dartford Tunnel for northbound — remains a vital part of the M25 orbital route. Despite previous promises that charges would end once the original construction costs were covered, tolls have remained in place under the justification of traffic management and environmental concerns.
The Department for Transport said the price hike is necessary to manage congestion and ensure the long-term sustainability of the crossing, which serves over 150,000 vehicles each day.
The increase has drawn criticism from some motorists and campaign groups, who argue the higher cost amounts to an unfair burden on drivers with few alternative routes. However, ministers maintain that the revised toll structure is essential to help reduce traffic levels and support infrastructure upkeep.
