A decision to up the price of the Tyne Tunnel toll has been delayed because of a shortage of councillors.
A vote was due to be held on Thursday, November 3, on a major increase that could see drivers charged an extra 30p per trip to use the crossing. But that verdict has had to be put on hold after it emerged that there would not be enough councillors present at a key transport meeting to make the decision binding.
Under the plans, car drivers’ toll would rise from £1.90 to £2.20 in 2023 and the HGV toll would go up from £3.90 to £4.40. Regional transport chiefs said the change was needed because of rising inflation levels, but had suggested that the increase be pushed back from February next year to May in order to avoid putting struggling residents under further financial strain over the winter.
