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Tolled Crossings and Regional Connectivity 2026-02-02

02 February 2026

Lead MP

Anna Gelderd

Debate Type

Adjournment Debate

Tags

EconomyTransport
Other Contributors: 8

At a Glance

Anna Gelderd raised concerns about tolled crossings and regional connectivity 2026-02-02 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Opened the debate
Meur ras, Madam Deputy Speaker. I am pleased to have secured a debate on this issue, which I have campaigned on consistently since becoming the Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, and which has existed for many years before my time in this House. It is an issue that I hear about daily because of its impact on almost every aspect of local life... [The rest of the speech as provided]

Government Response

EconomyTransport
Government Response
I am grateful to the hon. Member for South East Cornwall for raising this important issue regarding tolled crossings in her constituency. I acknowledge the challenges faced by residents and businesses in accessing essential services due to the cost of these crossings... [The minister's complete response as provided] The Minister acknowledges the long-standing issue and emphasises the importance of connectivity between Cornwall, Devon, and Plymouth. She notes that National Highways does not contribute to maintenance costs but highlights record-breaking investment in Cornwall's roads, including £220 million announced recently. The minister commits to working with local partners on fair reform and supporting infrastructure projects such as A38 upgrades and Dawlish resilience programme Phase 6. Additionally, she addresses the Tamar crossing issue by promising to explore cheaper tolls for local residents, devolution deals, and a strategic rail plan for resilience. I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for South East Cornwall on securing this debate. Improving transport connectivity is a top priority for the Government, providing £24 billion of capital funding to maintain and improve roads across England. The A38 on either side of the Tamar bridge falls under National Highways' responsibility as part of the strategic road network. Cornwall will benefit from up to £221 million over the next four years alongside over £24 million for maintenance and enhancements. Over £3 billion is being invested in improving bus services, including £30 million for Cornwall council from 2026-27 to 2028-29. Additional funding supports active travel infrastructure with nearly £700 million per year. Rail services are improved through the introduction of class 175 trains on Great Western Railway routes and a commitment to freeze regulated rail fares until March 2027. The Minister acknowledged the concerns about increasing toll charges at the Tamar crossings. He highlighted that rigorous processes are in place for assessing proposed toll increases, with applications made by asset owners to the Secretary of State and public consultation required before a decision can be made. The Minister emphasised the importance of the Tamar crossings for regional connectivity, particularly following Plymouth's designation as one of five key national defence growth areas under the UK defence industrial strategy. He reassured the House that this Government is providing record levels of investment in roads, rail, buses and active travel projects across the country to support economic growth and improve transport provision.
Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates

House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.