The Dartford Crossing is owned by the UK Government. It is managed by National Highways (formerly Highways England) on behalf of the Department for Transport. The operational management and maintenance, as well as toll collection, are contracted out to private companies, but ownership remains with the government.
Key Details
- The crossing comprises two tunnels and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge on the M25.
- Ownership transferred from local councils to a private company under a public-private initiative in 1988, but since then, government agencies have taken over ownership and management responsibilities.
- National Highways operates the crossing with contracts awarded to private firms for maintaining and running toll operations.
- The charge collected is called the Dart Charge, replacing traditional toll booths in 2014 to reduce congestion.
In summary, the Dartford Crossing is owned by the UK Government , while running and maintenance contracts are given to private entities under governmental oversight.
