Drivers facing big change when using Mersey Tunnels from next week

Motorists using the Mersey Tunnels are set to notice a big change from Monday. Drivers will see the difference when approaching the Wallasey and Birkenhead Tunnels.

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority said an improved tap and go card payment system will be rolled out in the Mersey Tunnels from next week, reports the ECHO. It added the new contactless system will almost halve the transaction time for card payments - improving traffic flow on the toll plaza during busy periods and cutting air pollution.

The new system will replace previous card payment devices introduced in 2019 and is part of the "wider modernisation programme". The upgrade will begin at the Queensway (Birkenhead) and Kingsway (Wallasey) Tunnels from Monday, November 18, when card payment machines will be gradually installed in all lanes.

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Cllr Steve Foulkes, chair of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: “With over 80,000 journeys a day, the tunnels are critical to the social and economic wellbeing of our region, so continued investment is needed to keep them running both efficiently and safely.

“This includes investing in modern technology as well as ensuring the year-round maintenance programme takes place to keep the tunnels open. We’ve ensured that the upgrade can be completed without having to close the plazas and I’d like to thank users for their patience while the upgrade is completed.”

The new system will be contactless only, removing the need to input a PIN number, helping to keep traffic moving during busy periods. To make the changes, staff will be working at the toll plazas at Queensway (Birkenhead) Tunnel and Kingsway (Wallasey) Tunnel from November 19.

During this time people can still pay by card and are urged to look out for the correct lane signage on the plaza. The authority said to avoid delays, tunnel users are encouraged to have a TFLOW account as this is the most convenient way to pay.