MOTORISTS could be hit with a further increase in Mersey tunnel tolls next year.

The region’s success and economic growth could be used to justify a rise in tolls in April, the third consecutive increase in three years.

A report due to be considered when Merseytravel committee meets on Thursday says “improving economic growth is such that a further increase in cash toll is justified”.

A spokesman for Merseytravel said no decision has been made – and it is too early to speculate.

An estimated 25 million vehicles are said to travel through the Kingsway and Queensway tunnels each year.

Tunnel tolls for cars went up by 10p to £1.70 earlier this year.

Prior to the move, John McGoldrick, secretary of protest group Mersey Tunnel Users’ Association, said any increase would be unwarranted and would be “bad news for motorists and businesses”.

The same report also recommends an increase in fares for Mersey Ferries and 15% of bus routes supported by the transport organisation.

The tunnels became assets of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority in April and while they have the final say on tolls, the day-to-day operations are the responsibility of Merseytravel.