Humber Bridge Ends Toll Booths Tonight as Online Payment System Launches
The Humber Bridge is set to undergo a significant transition as its toll booths permanently close tonight. This change ends over 40 years of manual toll collection since the bridge opened in 1981. Starting at midnight on January 30th, the bridge will move to a digital-only payment system aimed at modernizing the crossing and enhancing traffic flow.
End of an Era: Closure of Toll Booths
The toll booths have been an iconic feature for drivers traveling between East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. With their removal, vehicles will pass through without stopping, streamlining the experience for motorists. The new system, launching on January 31st, will entail a “go-live” weekend during which customer data will transition to the new service, named Humber Bridge Toll.
Automated Payment Options
The Humber Bridge Toll system utilizes automated number plate recognition technology, allowing for seamless electronic payments. Motorists will have various payment options, including:
- A new online payment website
- Telephone payments via customer services
- Debit or credit card payments
- Cash payments at regional PayPoint locations, excluding the bridge
Drivers must pay their tolls either before crossing or by midnight the following day. Those who miss this deadline will incur a £25 administration charge.
Revised Toll Fees
Along with the introduction of the new payment system comes the first increase in Humber Bridge toll fees in over ten years. The updated fees are as follows:
| Vehicle Type | Without Account | With Account |
|---|---|---|
| Cars and Small Vans | £2 | £1.50 |
| Vans | £5 | £4 |
| Heavy Goods Vehicles | £15 | £12 |
| Motorcycles | Free | Free |
Bridge officials have stated that these changes reflect rising maintenance costs and are essential for the future upkeep of the bridge, which sees millions of vehicles yearly.
Transition Period for Motorists
During the changeover weekend, drivers without accounts can still use the bridge and must pay their toll once the system goes live on February 2nd. They will have until midnight on February 3rd to settle their payments to avoid penalties.
Current HumberTag users should verify their account details and have sufficient credit in preparation for the switch. New login credentials will need to be established once the new system becomes operational.
Overall, the transition to a free-flow tolling system is aimed at decreasing congestion and enhancing reliability for motorists. This significant change marks a new chapter for the Humber Bridge, moving from the traditional toll booths to a more efficient and modern payment solution.
