Today marks a significant change for the residents of Zeeland as cars and motorcycles can now use the Westerscheldetunnel toll-free from 3:00 PM. This tunnel, the longest in the Netherlands, connects Zeeuws-Vlaanderen and Zuid-Beveland.
Previously, a single trip cost 5 euros, while a round trip was 10 euros. Cees Liefting from the Zeeland Toll-Free Foundation expressed his happiness, stating that it will enhance unity in Zeeland.
Harry van der Maas, a Zeeland official, called it a historic moment, as the toll was a barrier to economic, social, and community life. Initially, in 2003, there was little opposition to the toll since it facilitated the tunnel’s construction, avoiding longer detours.
Over time, however, the toll became a point of contention, especially since other tunnels in the Netherlands were free. In 2016, Liefting’s petition reached the Dutch Parliament, which unanimously supported toll-free passage.
The previous government allocated 140 million euros to end the toll for personal vehicles. While many celebrate the change, toll collectors regret the reduction in customers and the impact on jobs.
The Zeeland Toll-Free Foundation continues its efforts to eliminate truck tolls and make the Breskens-Vlissingen ferry free.
Source: NOS