Woolwich Ferry

[Hopkirk]

Why is it free to use, when it must cost millions to run?

They could just extend the camera charging system at the Dartford Crossing to include the ferry, so they don't have to set up a cash payment system.

[Old_Geezer]

It is ? Wow. There should be sufficient highways/bridges in the country's transport infrastructure already paid for, and maintained by, public money that constant ferry ticket costs don't come in to it. Shouldn't be any separate charging schemes, especially when the drivers are just used as cash cows.

[Hopkirk]

I personally think that the Dartford Crossing should be toll free now, but it seems odd that a ferry service just a bit upstream is free.

[sddsddean]

Its the law! as set up by the Metropolitan Board of Works in 1884 (though the actual crossing dates back much earlier). I used to take my truck on it regularly to get to the Sainsburys depot at Charlton. Had a friend with me once who couldn't believe the whole thing was free!
http://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/info/200064/local_history_and_heritage/265/history_of_the_woolwich_ferry/2

[Hopkirk]

Thanks.

Mind you, in these challenging times, I'm surprised the law hasn't been changed.

[sddsddean]

My Dad could remember when the boats were paddle steamers when he was a kid (before they brought in the end loading diesels in the 60's) and you could go and watch the engines working. No Health and Safety then!!

[SlackAlice]

Spent many a time as a kid on the paddle steamer versions going backwards and forwards. Watching all the machinery work, highly polished brass and copper. All the sounds and smells as well.

Long may it remain free.

Do definitely need another road crossing between North and South, at the moment it's either Dartford or Blackwall Tunnel which is quite a gap

[Hopkirk]

Well get rid of the queues at Dartford, and it's as good as another crossing added.

[TWR]

I have travelled many time's on the ferry but never found the Duty Free Shop, did the staff hide it from the Drivers?

[Hopkirk]

It's just behind the restaurant, TWR

[TWR]

Is that the one selling cockles Hop?

[SlackAlice]

Nope, the cockle stalls in the foot tunnel