MOTORISTS are saving hundreds of thousands of pounds per day on the Severn crossings a year on from the removal of the tolls.

Around £365,000 per day is being saved, based on the charges which were in place when the tolls were abolished on December 17, 2018.

Journeys into Wales from England over the Prince of Wales Bridge have increased by 16 per cent with an average of more than 39,000 journeys now being made each day.

Following the UK Government’s abolition of the tolls, the Western Gateway partnership was launched last month to maximise the economic potential of south Wales and the south west of England.

By bringing together world-renowned universities, businesses and local authorities across a wide region either side of the Severn, the Western Gateway will mirror the successful, established work of the Northern Powerhouse and Midlands Engine and will seek to ensure that the region is globally competitive.

UK Government Minister for Wales, Monmouth MP David Davies, said: “Over the last year, drivers have reaped the benefits of free road travel into Wales which is paying dividends for businesses across both sides of the Severn.

“We are better connected economically as a result and through the Western Gateway initiative we will harness the joint strengths of these two regions while respecting our distinct identities and traditions.

“The UK Government is committed to boosting Wales’ transport infrastructure and connectivity which is central to ensuring we raise our game economically and boost our productivity as a result.”