Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram has today proposed the introduction of a new £1 off-peak fast tag for Mersey Tunnel users.

The proposal is being made ahead of next week’s meetings of the Combined Authority’s Transport Committee and its full budget meeting, where tunnel tolls for next year are due to be set.

The creation of a £1 fast tag would fulfil one of the Metro Mayor’s key election pledges.

The new discount for off-peak travellers would apply between 7pm and 7am Monday to Saturday and all day Sunday.

Steve Rotheram said:

“I fully understand that no-one likes paying tolls, so I have put forward proposals designed to reduce costs for regular and local users of the Mersey Tunnels. By freezing the fast tag and introducing the £1 off-peak, we are striving to make cross-river travel as affordable and convenient as possible. 

“Encouraging more people to travel off-peak will also help to reduce congestion and improve air quality by reducing the number of queuing vehicles.”

The Metro Mayor has also asked Merseytravel  chiefs to look at ways to increase uptake of the fast tag  by streamlining the application process and proactive marketing for the more efficient and cost-effective option.

He added:

“A review and refresh of tunnel operations is under way, which amongst other things, will look at the introduction of contactless payment and new technology. As part of that process I would want to look at ways in which we can make it as easy as possible for people to use the cheapest payment option.”