This week, the Warbuton toll bridge in Lymm changed its operations. The famously cheap 12p toll is currently free and will soon be operating a single lane of traffic, controlled by lights.
The changes have occurred following an engineering inspiration and will last up to three months. For the next few months, the bridge, between Rixton and Warbuton, will not be staffed as the traffic lights and no toll make staffing the bridge unnecessary.
Last year, plans for a £6.5m upgrade to the bridge suggested the toll price of 12p could increase by more than 700 percent to £1, for the first time in 158 years. The bridge first opened in 1863 and has charged a 12p toll since 1890.
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The plans for the bridge include upgrades to footpaths, surrounding roads and to the tolling system itself. Developed by Warrington Borough Council and Trafford Council would see a new ‘free flowing’ toll system, and hopes to reduce congestion by removing the staff at the booth, instead opting for an automatic system.
Further improvements for the future of the bridge include an increase to the weight limit on the bridge, resurfacing of the highway and strengthening the restrictions of HGVs. However, these improvements are still under discussion.
A spokesperson for the Manchester Ship Canal said: “Following a routine engineering inspection, we plan to install temporary traffic lights and single-lane traffic, and have removed all toll charges on Warburton Toll Bridge. The bridge remains fully operational and safe, although the toll booth and staff are not needed whilst a single lane is enforced. We expect this to take up to three months.
“Discussions regarding the ongoing maintenance and repair of Warburton Toll Bridge continue and plans are currently under review, submitted as part of the Transport and Works Acts Order.”
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