Coronavirus: ‘Constant dialogue’ as lower NSW toll fees

NSW is in ‘constant dialogue’ with toll road operators about lowering fees to encourage more people to commute by car.

NSW is in “constant dialogue” with toll road operators about ­potentially lowering fees to encourage more people to commute by car as the state develops strategies to avoid crowding on public transport, the Berejiklian government has said.

NSW Transport Minister ­Andrew Constance said that as well as reducing maximum passenger limits on public transport, expanding bike paths and erecting “pop-up” parking areas, the state was talking to the state’s largest toll ­operator — Transurban — about fees.

The operator, which manages the Cross City Tunnel, the M2, the Eastern Distributor and the Lane Cove tunnel, recently increased tolls.

“I was irritated when Trans­urban lifted their tolls in the last quarter, and we are … in constant dialogue with them on this,” Mr Constance told 2GB on Monday.

“I think there is a need for everyone to play their part.”

However, he did not say whether the government would take explicit action, citing the complexity of toll road contracts.

Mr Constance said another ­location for a pop-up car park could be Sydney Olympic Park.

Moore Park will be used for temporary commuter parking from next Monday.