Tamar Bridge Toll Collection Service

Tolls collected at the Tamar Bridge represent the major source of income for the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry which are operated and maintained as self-financing infrastructure. Despite offering a range of automated and cash-free payment options, a physical presence is still required in each of the five mixed mode toll lanes and to support our two automated lanes.

This high-profile 24/7/365 service has been contracted out since 1986, with the current contract expiring on 31 March 2027. The Authority seeks to procure a new arrangement with an initial contract term of three years, with optional extensions of up to five years in total, in any combination, giving a maximum possible duration of eight years.

The structure and flexibility of the extension options are necessary due to ongoing investigations into the potential implementation of an Open Road Tolling (ORT) system. Introduction of ORT would directly affect future service requirements, and the potential for change requires that the Authority retain discretion over if, and for how long, the extension options are exercised.

The contract incorporates a cleaning requirement for the adjoining buildings, providing some onsite flexibility of resources for the appointed contractor.

It is envisaged that a TUPE transfer of staff will be necessary.

Tamar Crossings is conducting a soft market assessment to gain an understanding of the potential level of interest across all sectors in provision of toll collection services (TCS) at the Tamar Bridge. The Crossings does so on behalf of the owning Authorities, Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council. The TCS is for the provision of staff to process vehicles and payments to meet a 24/7/365 operating schedule at toll booths located at the eastern (Plymouth) extremity of the Tamar suspension bridge.

Whilst this service is well established and has been provided by third parties over several decades, it is intended that the responses supplied will enable the Crossings to further develop and refine a business proposal. The proposal would be subject to the development and approval of a refreshed business case, and, as such, this exercise implies no commercial commitment.

This is not a formal tender document and participation of this soft market assessment will not prejudice suppliers participating in any future procurement.

Please return your your completed Soft Market Test document by close of Friday 20th February 2026, via the procurement portal (Proactis.com) www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk – Project No. DN803005, Tamar Bridge Toll Collection Service.