Thurrock Council should get a bigger share of the £76m that could be generated each year from tolls at the Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing.

The recommendation appears in a report by the East of England Regional Assembly's Planning Panel as part of its proposed response to a public consultation by the Department of Transport on increases to charges at the Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing.

Last year just three per cent (£1.75m) of the revenue taken from drivers at the crossing was allocated to the local authority to support local transport schemes.

The Assembly recommends this percentage be increased to generate more funds to ensure the roads and transport networks in the Thurrock area are maintained and improved for local people.

However, news of the potential windfall is not likley to impress Thurrock councillors who have already called on the government to make the crossing free, while the borough's two MPs, Angela Smith and Andrew Mackinaly, are campaigning to cut the cost to 15 for local residents.

Councillor John Reynolds, Chair of the Regional Planning Panel said: "An average of 150,000 vehicles uses the crossing every day and the impact on congestion, journey times, air quality and safety is felt by local people. Efficient roads and transport systems are essential if the area is to continue to attract jobs and well skilled workers so we will recommend that more money from the crossing tolls be allocated to local transport plans."

The Government's proposed changes to charges include increasing a single crossing charge by 50p to £1.50 with a discounted rate of £1.00 for Dart-Tag holders and removing charges for crossing at night between 10pm and 6am.

The Assembly will deliver an official response to the Government's consultation following the Regional Planning Panel meeting in Cambridge on Thursday (March 8). The consultation closes on Friday, March 9.

What do you think? Post your views on the crossing toll options below.