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TOLLED BRIDGES REVIEW: PHASE ONE REPORT - 29 OCTOBER 2004:
8. Tolled Bridges Review Phase Two
Scope and project plan for the second Phase of review to cover broader issues relating to management, operation and maintenance of tolled bridges and wider consultation |
The White Paper set out the broad terms of reference for Phase Two as including "an examination of the broader issues, relating to the management, operation and maintenance of the tolled bridges. This will also include an assessment of how tolled bridges relate to the new regional and national transport agencies."
The terms of reference for Phase Two have been developed from issues emerging from Phase One, as well as the requirements set out in the White Paper.
Phase Two will include the following:
Management Structures and Objectives
Review existing management structures to ensure that arrangements complement the development of regional transport partnerships and the national transport agency, and are responsive to the requirements of future transport priorities.
Consider whether the powers of the management body for each tolled bridge should cover investment in local transport infrastructure, including support for public transport and encouragement of modal shift from private cars.
Statement of Scottish Tolling/Charging Principles and Objectives
Consider whether there is a case for applying a consistent set of principles on every tolled bridge in Scotland, and if so, what these principles might be. Issues to be considered will include:
- Vehicle classification types.
- Exemptions for disabled drivers, emergency services vehicles and breakdown vehicles.
- Exemptions or reduced tolls for public transport/high occupancy vehicles
- Whether toll levels should have a direct relationship to the level of wear and tear caused by different vehicle types.
- The use or otherwise of discount schemes.
Procedures for adjusting Tolls or Charges
Consider whether there is a need to amend the legislative and procedural arrangements for changing tolling or charging levels and periods, in a way that is transparent, flexible, justifiable, and responsive to changing circumstances.
Maintenance Provision
Review operational and funding arrangements to ensure that adequate provision is made for future maintenance and upgrading requirements.
Technological Developments
Review developments in modernising tolling operations on Scottish tolled bridges and the need to progress towards compatibility and interoperability with local and national road pricing schemes. This will take account of policy and legislative developments in the EU, in particular the draft European Directives on interoperability of infrastructure charging.
Bridge Specific Issues to be Considered in Phase Two
Erskine Bridge - consider future arrangements including the need for legislative changes that may be necessary for future funding, operation and management of the bridge. Consideration should include an assessment of the impact on congestion elsewhere in Glasgow in a way that achieves an optimum outcome without having a detrimental impact elsewhere in the city. In addition, consider the need for upgrading and refurbishment of the existing toll plaza, tolling systems and administration building.
Tay Road Bridge - consider how future tolling arrangements could help tackle congestion and air quality issues affecting Dundee city centre, including a review of proposals by Tay Road Bridge Joint Board (TRBJB) to re-locate the toll booths at the southern end of the bridge.
Forth Road Bridge - consider proposals to achieve a significant shift from single occupancy vehicles (SOVs) to multiple occupancy vehicles (HOVs) through such tolling structures and arrangements as differential tolling and discount schemes designed to benefit HOVs.
Consultation
Phase One of the Bridges Review used a targeted consultation approach, focussing on individuals and organisations with expertise or particular interests in the tolled bridges. Phase Two will take the same approach. However, given the broader terms of reference, this consultation exercise may be extended to include consultees and organisations not involved in Phase One.
Publication
The outcome of Phase Two will be made available to the public. Recommendations on the appropriate publication format, and its linkage to Phase One, will be brought forward as part of Phase Two.
Timeframe
Phase Two will be presented to the Minister for Transport during summer 2005.
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