Written evidence from the Right Rev John
Davies, Bishop of Swansea and Brecon
A couple of comments:
1. There is always the peculiar perception of
the one-way toll, namely that to visit/enter Wales costs whereas
to get out is free!
2. The steady increase in toll charges (admittedly
justified by inflation / maintenance costs) has an ongoing negative
effect and impact upon carriers, commuters etc.
3. The bridges are, however, a vital link and,
presumably, both should be maintained to address the possibility
of one having to be closed completely for major works etc.
4. Once the bridges revert to public ownership,
strategic plans for maintenance and funding for capital works
are vital. Whether this is a Westminster matter or a devolved
responsibility, I do not know. Would accumulated capital reserves,
then held by the bridge operators, transfer to the responsible
authority?
August 2010
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