Campaign against A14 toll tax has real momentum

The ‘No Toll Tax on Suffolk’ campaign has real momentum says Dave Muller, chair of Ipswich Chamber of Commerce.

A campaign showing the depth of damage the tolling of the A14 would bring to the Suffolk economy has received the backing of a growing number of firms across the town and the wider county.

“By placing an additional “local” toll without a realistic choice in alternative routes there is a justifiable concern that this will now increase costs in an arbitrary manner, with no realistic outcome other than local businesses absorbing this additional cost at a very challenging time,” said Jonathan Burke the general manager for transport at the Mediterranean Shipping Company in Ipswich.

“I sell and rent shipping containers for storage purposes with delivery to my customers’ sites. East Anglia is my busiest area. I also import new containers from China that are delivered from a central point in the UK to Felixstowe. Delivery costs are already high and if there’s an A14 toll charge the cost will have to be passed on to my customers. This will lead to fewer sales and rentals, therefore, seriously affecting my business. My message to the Government is to please abolish the toll charges on the A14 with immediate effect,” said Jane Billing, Director of Billie Box Ltd in Ipswich.

“We’re delighted with the positive support this campaign is receiving,” said Dave Muller, the Chair of Ipswich Chamber of Commerce.

“This campaign is allowing many partners in Ipswich, the wider county and neighbouring counties, from Local Authorities, including Ipswich Borough Council, and business voice organisations to unite together and share their campaigns under a common umbrella,” he continued.

“Our MPs are in Manchester this week at the Tory Party Conference, and through Therese Coffey MP, we will be ensuring that decision makers high in Government, such as the Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McCloughlin are fully aware of our concerns.’’