Users of the Dartford Crossing will be aware of the introduction of a new payment service. Needless to say, the changeover has not been without glitch and many users have reported difficulties when trying to make payments.
This has been especially the case for users of the local resident’s discount scheme and those with Dartcharge accounts. Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price has sought reassurance from the Minister that no one should be issued with a PCN when they have tried to make a payment which has failed due to the new system.
In response the Minister Richard Holden has said that he is very clear that ‘no one who has tried to pay Dart Charge but been unable to do so due to technical issues should be penalised and anyone receiving a PCN in those circumstances should appeal’ . National Highways are expected to treat these appeals fairly.
He has also instructed that all local resident discount holders whose accounts were due to expire between 1 July and 31 August have been extended to 30th September in order to address the issues around renewals.
Dartcharge has not issued any PCNs for crossing made between 27 July and 15 August.
Jackie Doyle-Price said, “I am very pleased that the Minister has responded so decisively. The issues around the new payments system have caused nuisance and distress for many users and I hope they will all be reassured by his prompt intervention”.
