NEW tolling could be introduced for Ferry Road in Studland – sparking fears some may have to pay more than others.

The owners of the Sandbanks Ferry could introduce fees for anybody using the road for more than 30 minutes. 

Bournemouth-Swanage Motor Road and Ferry Company maintains Ferry Road, running from South Haven Point (Shell Bay) to the junction with Hardy’s Road in Studland 

Jason du Toit, managing director of the ferry, said there is no intention to move the booth further up Ferry Road. 

However, a way collecting the money “which will not hinder the flow of traffic” will be worked out if the toll is approved.

(Image: Daily Echo)

He added there are several benefits to introducing a toll for the road, including reducing parking along the verges – a problem in the past for the fire service. 

Nick Ward, chairman of the Purbeck Transport Action Group, said it appears people from the Purbeck area would have to pay to park on the road whereas BCP’s residents would not have to. 

He said: “In summary, the ferry company is proposing cost of living percentage increases year on year to ferry ticket prices, and reducing the discount for locals by about half.  

“They also want to re-introduce the toll for using the road, with 15 minutes grace to use the road, so effectively charging to park on the road.  

“This appears to mean no change for people coming from BCP – they will pay for the ferry at the increased rate, which will include parking on ferry road/using Ferry Road if they choose to.

“Those coming from Studland village side would be asked to pay for parking on Ferry Road (£6 being proposed) regardless of using the ferry or not.  

“This would have a significant impact on local people using the road to access Studland peninsula and on traffic flows in that direction, with the potential for pushing more people to use active/sustainable travel options instead.” 

The Purbeck Transport Action Group will be submitting an objection to the proposals to the Department for Transport. 

A spokesman for Dorset Council added the authority is working on its stance to the proposals, but previously said it would not support any price increases. 

He said: “Dorset Council objected to the ferry company’s previous application earlier this year, and we are working with local stakeholders to provide a response to this revised application. 

“This needs to be sent to the Secretary of State by 12 September, and we will share that response when it is finalised.” 

Jason du Toit, managing director for the ferry, said “There will be many benefits in reintroducing the road only toll for various stakeholders. 

“It will ease congestion at busy times along Ferry Road by reducing parking on the verges, which often spills onto the carriageway.  

“It is likely this will aid in protection of natural habitats, whilst making a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists alike. 

“The hope is that it will encourage parking in National Trust car parks and be a small aid in topping up the ‘ferry replacement reserve’.  

“There is a further anticipation that it will go some way in eradicating the overnight parking and camper vans along the road.”  

Mr du Toit argues a car travelling from Sandbanks to Studland and back again that day will pay a return ferry fare of £12.52. 

But car coming from the Studland side (and not using the ferry that day) will only pay half that (£6.26) to use just the road. 

Proposed price increases:

THE new price rises could see pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, who have paid £1 since 2009 to cross, paying £1.75. 

Cars or light vans less than 3.5 tonnes, previously paying £5.30, may have to fork out an extra 96p to pay £6.26, or an 18 per cent increase. 

Passenger vehicles such as coaches and HGVs more than 3.5 tonnes could also see an 18 per cent increase from £10.60 to £12.52. 

Comments by people with “a substantial interest” can be made in relation to the proposed price rises to nationalcasework@dft.gov.uk by September 12.