LOCAL benefit for local people.

That was the message behind Dartford MP Howard Stoate’s two suggestions for the consultation document on the proposed increases to the Dartford Crossing toll charges.

Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman confirmed that the two ideas - drastic reductions in Dart Tag charges for local people and using toll money for local transport projects - would be included in the consultation.

Dr Ladyman said: "The proposals put forward by Dr Stoate are well worth debating. I want local people to discuss how they feel they should best be rewarded.

"I want to cater for both types - those who use the tolls and have to pay and those who don’t but have to put up with the pollution."

Dr Ladyman took the ideas on board after a meeting with Dr Stoate and Thurrock MP Andrew MacKinlay.

Dr Stoate said: "I want local people to have a fair deal. Certainly I want as many people as possible to have their say."

The consultation lasts for 12 weeks and the document will be available through the website www.dft.gov.uk.

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