New plans may increase fees for Mersey Tunnel drivers

Motorists traveling through the Mersey Tunnels, which connect Liverpool with the Wirral, may see their journey costs increase by 10p under proposed adjustments. Currently, residents of the Liverpool City Region pay 1.60 per trip, while non-residents pay 2.60. Both fees would rise by the same amount if the plan is approved.

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, responsible for setting tunnel charges, emphasized that the resident fare would still remain 1 below the maximum permitted under the Tunnels Act.

Meanwhile, the authority confirmed that the under-19s unlimited travel bus ticket, priced at 2.20, will remain unchanged for the ninth consecutive year. Free travel passes for residents over 60 will continue to be available.

Future Transport Developments

The Mersey Tunnel tolls were increased last year, causing frustration among campaigners advocating for lower or eliminated charges. However, Steve Rotheram, mayor of the Liverpool City Region, highlighted that residents would still benefit from some of the regions most affordable travel options. He added, "Significant changes are coming. Starting next year, passengers will notice improvements as bus services in St Helens and Wirral come under direct local control, giving users more influence over their travel."

Investments and Maintenance

The Combined Authority has invested millions into the Queensway Tunnel, linking Liverpool and Birkenhead, and the Kingsway Tunnel, connecting Liverpool with Wallasey. This includes 18.5 million for LED lighting installations and extensive updates to tolling and payment systems. Routine maintenance and operational costs for the tunnels run into millions annually.

Officials noted that the proposed fare increase remains below inflation rates and under the legal maximum. Any revenue surplus from the tunnels is mandated to be reinvested in the regions transport infrastructure.

Next Steps

A public meeting to review the proposals is scheduled for 12 December. If approved, the new charges would take effect from 1 April 2026.

Analysis: Proposed Mersey Tunnel Fare Increase

The proposed 10p rise in Mersey Tunnel charges represents a modest adjustment for both residents and non-residents. Residents would pay £1.70 per trip, remaining well below the legal maximum, while non-residents would see a cost of £2.70. This measured approach reflects the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s stated intent to balance operational funding with affordability.

Investment in tunnel infrastructure continues at a significant scale. The £18.5 million allocated to LED lighting and updated toll systems demonstrates a focus on long-term maintenance and modernization. Routine operational costs, while substantial, are supported by fare revenue, which must be reinvested in regional transport projects.

Importantly, social travel programs remain unaffected. Unlimited travel for under-19s and free passes for over-60s are preserved, underscoring a commitment to accessibility. Future service improvements, including enhanced bus control in St Helens and Wirral, are expected to provide tangible benefits to residents.

The proposed fare increase, although below inflation, will be formally reviewed at the public meeting on 12 December, with implementation planned for 1 April 2026. Overall, the adjustments are incremental, legally compliant, and tied to ongoing investment in regional transport infrastructure.

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• Mersey Tunnel drivers could pay more under new plans