Shrewsbury's Kingsland Bridge car toll could double - to 20p

The toll on Shrewsbury's historic Kingsland Bridge, which has remained unchanged for more than 25 years, could double to help fund a major redecoration of the site.

The Shrewsbury Kingsland Bridge Company has applied to the Secretary of State for Transport to increase the toll charge for motorists from 10p to 20p.

The 1p no-obligatory charge for pedestrians and cycles will not change.

Consultation will take place before on the rise.

James Hodgson, director of the company, said the increase was needed to generate cash for maintenance and redecoration of the bridge.

He said: "The toll hasn't been increased since 1985 and we need to build up funds for major redecoration of the bridge which has cost considerable amount."

Ben Jason, marketing manager at Shrewsbury School, said: "The parents of the students use the bridge because it is very convenient for getting in and out of the town. It could be very interesting for the first few weeks if the toll is increased. It could cause disruption."