28/06/2012

Queensland’s peak motoring organisation, the RACQ, has welcomed today’s announcement of a three-month toll free period for AirportlinkM7, followed by discounted tolls for another year.

RACQ’s executive manager public policy Michael Roth said AirportlinkM7, which is expected to open in August, would be a major and important piece of infrastructure for Brisbane that was expected to ease congestion on surface roads above it.

“We understand the toll road operators, BrisConnections, have consulted with motorists, business, industry and community groups to come up with these welcome toll discounts for the first 15 months of operation,” Mr Roth said.

“The opportunity to use the road free of charge for three months gives motorists a good chance to test the infrastructure and its value to them.

“If motorists value it, they will use it, and we hope they do. The worst outcome would be to see a good, safe piece of infrastructure sitting there unused.”

Mr Roth said the RACQ encouraged motorists to try AirportlinkM7 during the toll-free period to find out for themselves if it saved time and stress.

“Overall, the RACQ sees the toll structure announced today as a fair introductory offer,” Mr Roth said.

“When the free period ends, the maximum motorists in private vehicles will pay to use AirportlinkM7 for the next six months will be $2.50, followed by another six months of a maximum toll of $3.75.

“The 15-month period before the full toll kicks in gives motorists ample time to fully test the value of AirportlinkM7 for their trip purposes.”