WITH the Severn Bridge tolls due to be halved in 2018, Monmouthshire towns have been urged to consider both the positive and negative impact the change could have.

Toll prices have risen by 10p for small cars and caravans and 20p for larger vehicles for this year, but in George Osborne’s annual budget in November it was said that tolls for cars will be halved in 2018.

The prices are said to drop to £3.30 for cars, £6.60 for vans and £9.90 for lorries; but this could change because of the 1.3 per cent increase in prices this year.

At the moment the price for cars and small caravans is £6.70, £13.40 for vans and buses, and £20 for lorries.

A Chepstow town councillor has warned businesses to start considering the possible economic effects of the changes now.

Cllr Armand Watts said his principle worry is that Monmouthshire County Council ‘does not have an economic strategy plan for the south of the county when the toll prices do fall’.

He said: “The toll prices dropping is a massive change for the local economy and there is no economic strategy for Monmouthshire and Chepstow.

“This is a huge thing and I’m shocked there is no plan in place yet.”

Cllr Bob Greenland, the cabinet member with responsibility for enterprise, has said a plan will be put in place shortly though.

“Monmouthshire County Council believes that the reduction in Severn Bridge tolls in 2018 will have a positive impact on Monmouthshire’s economy,” he added.

“It is our intention to continue to promote Monmouthshire as the place to develop businesses that cover southern Wales and the west of England.

“This promotional activity will be escalated in the coming months with emphasis on the reducing costs of tolls, whilst also promoting southern Monmouthshire as a quality shopping destination.

“Clearly with more jobs comes the need for more housing, with additional school places an important consideration. We have already asked for a fresh look at our housing allocation.

“This will be particularly important if there is pressure for those living close to Bristol to move to Monmouthshire.

“Let’s remember that Bristol salary levels are higher so we can assume that this will provide more spending opportunities here.”