A CONSULTATION on discounted charges for locals at the Dartford Crossing has come to an end.

The scheme proposes car drivers living in Dartford borough will pay 20p each time they go through the tolls when the charge rises to £1.50 for private cars later this year.

In order to qualify for the discount, residents will need to pay a £10 annual reigstration fee for an electronic tag which will sit in their windscreen and identify them as a local driver when they approach the booths.

The discount will also apply to residents in Thurrock, Essex.

Motorists in Swanley, Gravesham and other neighbouring areas have hit out at the plans because they will not be eligible for the discount despite living closer to the tolls than people in parts of Thurrock.

The consultation period ended on Friday.