Fees hike at Eling toll bridge approved by Totton and Eling Town Council amid legal advice

PLANS to hike fees at a historic Forest toll bridge have been given the green light.

As reported in the A&T, Totton and Eling Town Council wanted to double the charges at Eling toll bridge, which have remained at £1 per car for more than 20 years.

A recent report revealed the bridge, which is thought to date back to before 1700, has structural defects and the council fears it will be left with a large repair bill if action is not taken.

By increasing the toll, enforcing a two-tonne weight limit and axing exemptions, which includes around 40 residents of Eling Hill and churchgoers, it hopes to both reduce the use of the bridge and bring in a greater income for repairs.

It is offering those residents the opportunity to buy a pass allowing the fee-free travel to continue for a £25 administration fee.

At a recent meeting of the town council, members voted eight to two in favour of the increase, with eight abstentions. However, they agreed to put off formally implementing the changes to seek legal advice after residents raised concerns over the validity of the charges and their rights to exemption.

The meeting heard from residents of Eling Hill, who said they felt they were being unfairly treated and discriminated against.

Resident Mary Brown said exemption from the toll had been granted 40 years ago by NFDC on the grounds it was “reasonable and necessary” for residents to be able to access services and facilities in the town centre by the shortest available route.

“In that respect, nothing has changed. Parents taking kids to school, people making use of medical services, shops or the library all have to cross the bridge or make a lengthy detour.

“These services are free to other residents of Totton and to make part of the community pay is nothing short of discrimination.”

She added residents supported the proposed increase to the toll in principle, which would help cut down on those using it as a rat run, and the enforcement of the weight restriction.

Resident Graham Gardiner added: “We have taken legal advice and are of the strong opinion that the issuance of free exemption passes is an established right and should continue in perpetuity.”

He added the issue of paying the administrative charge for a free pass was not necessary, as motorists could simply show their driving licence to the toll keeper to prove their address.

Chair of the council, Cllr Caroline Rackham, told the meeting: “We all know and love the tide mill and toll bridge and it is something we really want to preserve.

“There are good reasons to put the charges up, but I completely understand you don’t want to hear there is a charge for you.

“The admin charge is very little, rather than paying each time you cross the bridge.”

The council will hear the outcome of the legal advice at a meeting next Wednesday before a final decision is made by NFDC.