MPs question 150 percent increase in TamarTag administration fee

Three MPs have challenged the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee after it agreed to increase the TamarTag administration fee from £0.80 per month to £2.00 per month. The rise, confirmed at a recent Committee meeting, represents a 150 percent increase.

Anna Gelderd MP, Luke Pollard MP and Fred Thomas MP have signed a letter urging the Committee to rethink the decision, warning that it places an unfair burden on the people who rely on the crossings most.

MPs Call for Justification and Transparency

In their letter, the MPs questioned why the Committee had chosen to raise the admin fee without progress on reducing tolls for local users. They argued that the decision affects only local people, which they say goes against previous discussions with the Joint Chairs and management.

The MPs have asked the Committee to fully justify the increase, consult properly, communicate clearly with users and show evidence that other options were considered.

Their letter states that their priority remains supporting communities in South East Cornwall and Plymouth. They say they will continue to challenge decisions that add pressure to households already facing rising costs.

Anna Gelderd Warns of Impact on Families

Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, said:

“In South East Cornwall, we need cheaper, fairer tolls for local people. At every turn, it has been clear how many residents rely on crossing the Tamar for hospital appointments, work and essential services and no one should be deterred from accessing basic care or opportunity because of rising toll charges.

“This latest decision risks placing yet another cost on families who simply cannot absorb it. That’s why I’m pressing the Committee for clear justification for the increase, full financial transparency, evidence of alternative options considered, a clear implementation timeline, and a proper plan for communicating with local users.”

Luke Pollard Calls Decision “Deeply Disappointing”

Luke Pollard, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, added:

“I am deeply disappointed by the decision to increase the fees to the TamarTag for local users by 150 percent, alongside my colleagues, I have consistently called for cheaper tolls for local people and this flies in the face of that. I want to see a fairer system, that means local users are not penalised for having to cross the river to get to work, health, education and family.”

Fred Thomas Highlights Lack of Alternatives for Local Users

Fred Thomas, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Moor View, said:

“Local people rely on the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry, they don’t have the luxury of choosing another route. This increase will hit them hard at a time when household budgets are already stretched. We’re calling on the Committee to explain how this rise can be justified and why any alternative options were ruled out. I hope this decision will be reconsidered so that local residents are not unfairly penalised.”