Bridge used by 160k vehicles daily set for closures including THIS WEEKEND
Dartford east tunnel, 11pm to 6am.Overnight from September 9 until September 13, the west tunnel will be closed.


Similarly, Mike Adams from Rochester, Kent, faced a fine after trying to pay for a crossing in a rental car, only to be told the system couldn’t recognise the vehicle’s registration. It’s also the third most expensive toll in the country, charging £2.50 per crossing.ANPR cameras automatically bill drivers, but not without controversy.MOTORISTS planning to use the Dartford Crossing this weekend face a series of overnight closures, as critical maintenance works get underway.
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Traffic will be directed through the east tunnel. She suspects the cameras misread her registration plates, confusing “DV” with “DY” and “OV” in blurred evidence photos.Monday 9 September to Thursday 12 SeptemberSaturday 14 September
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National Highways have confirmed the closures are necessary to carry out essential upgrades.”We’ve made this easy by offering different ways to pay, which suit everyone’s needs.”
The crossing’s payment system, known as the “Dart Charge,” operates with a “free flow” system to keep traffic moving. National Highways responded to these complaints, stating that manual checks are sometimes required to verify details. It marks the start of a series of closures affecting the busy route, which links Essex and Kent via the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and two 1.4km-long tunnels.National Highways said it is carrying out vital maintenance work on the bridge pylons, cable stays, and dampers, with safety being a top priority.This includes installing new CCTV and lighting, waterproofing and replacing tunnel bearings, and repairing the concrete walkways.
ANPR Controversy and Fines
Friday 6 SeptemberThe first closure will see the east tunnel shut from 10pm on Sunday, reopening at 5am on Monday, 16. Drivers are urged to plan ahead and be aware of the diversion routes to avoid delays. It’s currently the only way to cross the River Thames by road east of London, making it a crucial link for both Essex and Kent.Dartford west tunnel, 10pm to 5:30amTraffic will be diverted to the west tunnel, but vehicles over 4.8m tall won’t fit and will need to take a lengthy detour via the M25 clockwise.The Dartford Crossing is one of the UK’s busiest road routes, used by a staggering 50 million vehicles annually. Sunday 15th SeptemberDuring these periods, traffic will be diverted through the east tunnel.
PLAN AHEAD
While they admit errors do occur, they claim these are rare and will be corrected when customers report them.
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The agency added: “The easiest option for customers is to pay every time and on time. QEII Bridge closure, 10pm to 5am
Dartford Crossing closure details
