The Government has this week announced a significant rise in charges at the Dartford Crossing, prompting concerns from Hornchurch & Upminster MP, Julia Lopez.

From 1 September 2025, most drivers will see a 40 percent increase in the Dart Charge, the road user fee applied to manage traffic at one of the UK’s busiest crossings. Car drivers will pay £3.50 per crossing, up from the current £2.50. Account holders will pay £2.80.

While charges for motorcycles and night-time crossings will remain free, the Department for Transport says the changes are necessary to manage congestion and reflect inflation since the last price change in 2014.

Julia has raised concerns about the impact this increase may have on regular users of the Crossing, including commuters, small businesses and those on fixed incomes.

Speaking after receiving a letter from Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood, Mrs Lopez said:

“This 40 percent rise will come as an unwelcome shock to constituents, especially those who rely on the Crossing for work or family commitments. I understand the need to manage traffic and maintain vital infrastructure, but this is a steep increase in one go and adds to the financial pressure on people’s household budgets.

“I also question whether this rise is truly about managing demand. The reality is that people will continue to use the Crossing because they have no alternative, it’s a vital route for work, family and freight. I want to hear directly from residents who will be affected by this decision so I can make sure their voices are heard.”

Mrs Lopez is encouraging constituents to contact her directly with their views and experiences, particularly if the changes will significantly affect their daily travel or business operations. Residents can contact Mrs Lopez at [email protected]

The Dartford Crossing currently carries up to 180,000 vehicles a day, well above its intended capacity of 135,000. Nearly 40 percent of vehicles are goods vehicles, underlining the road's importance for freight and trade. The Department for Transport claim the charge increase will help reduce demand and ease congestion.

However, the decision to impose a single, substantial rise rather than smaller, staged increases has drawn concern.

Residents and businesses can continue to make free crossings between 10 pm and 6 am. Account holders will also continue to benefit from reduced charges compared to one-off payments.