The Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry are on the agenda for senior Cornwall Councillors who will be meeting today.

A report about the financial impact of COVID-19 on the crossings will come before Cornwall’s Cabinet.

There have been forecasts which show that the deficit for the joint operation could be more than £10million by 2024/25 unless actions is taken. The bridge and ferry saw a big drop in income due to the coronavirus lockdown which led to a reduction in the amount of traffic using the services.

The Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry Joint Committee – which has members from Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council – has been considering options for addressing the financial black hole which will be discussed by the Cabinet.

These include reducing the level of discount for those who use tags to cross the bridge and to increase the rate of tolls.

Both local authorities are continuing to lobby the Government to provide financial support to cover the losses caused by Coronavirus but as yet has not had any offers of help.

The preferred option would be for a 10% reduction in the Tamar Tag discount from January 2021 and a standard cash toll increase of 20% – which would see the cost go from £2 to £2.40 – in January 2022.

Joint chairman of the committee Cllr Sam Tamlin has said that he feels the discount could be reinstated should the Government agree to step in with support.

Any increase in tolls would have to be agreed under a statutory process which includes consultation and approval from the Government.