John Baron MP welcomes Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology at the Dartford Crossing

MP says removal of toll booths will ease congestion

John Baron MP has welcomed news that Automatic Number Plate Recognition [ANPR] technology will be introduced at the Dartford Crossing. Having responded to the Government’s consultation on options for a New Lower Thames Crossing to suggest that ANPR technology would solve many of the traffic problems at the crossing and eliminate the need for a further crossing, John was pleased to see that the Government will now be introducing this technology at the Dartford Crossing from October 2014.

Whilst the Government maintains that there is a need for a further crossing, it has listened to John and others who have championed the removal of the toll booths in favour of ANPR payments. The new Dart Charge scheme will involve the provision of open traffic in both directions, the safe removal of the barriers and plaza, as well as new traffic control measures.

John said:

“I welcome the news that the Government will be introducing Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology at the Dartford Crossing from October 2014. The use of toll booths slows traffic and is frustrating for drivers.”

“I remain of the view that we should wait to see whether a further crossing is necessary until the new technology has been tested, but this news is a step in the right direction.”