DISCOUNTS could be granted for residents using the Dartford Crossing.

The announcement was made on Monday by Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman.

It follows a consultation process which ended on March 9 and received 10,730 responses.

Dr Ladyman said: "The Dartford Crossing has brought huge benefits over the years.

"But surrounding communities have borne the brunt of the added fumes and jams.

"We have registered the strong demand for local discounts expressed through the consultation and we accept in principle there is a case for this, alongside the implementation of other proposals in the consultation paper."

Dr Ladyman said the Department for Transport would now be evaluating possible schemes to provide the discounts.

He said there would still be a discount for regular drivers using theelectronic DART-Tag system.

This currently entitles drivers to pay 93p instead of £1.

The tolls were originally intended to end once the bridge was paid for in 2003.

However, the fact they have continued and are due to be raised has led to criticism from some motoring organisations.

Last week, News Shopper reported the Freight Transport Association had called for charges to be scrapped completely.

MP for Dartford Dr Howard Stoate attended the announcement at the crossing.

Dr Stoate, has led a campaign for a 90 per cent reduction of the tolls for residents, supported by 1,327 people.

He said Dr Ladyman had agreed to consider this.

Under Dr Stoate's proposals, the £1 charge would reduce to 15p.

Dr Stoate said: "I think it's fantastic news.

"It's a huge success for my campaign and a huge win for the people of Dartford who will now get a significant reduction."

The current charging system will continue until more detailed proposals are published later this year.