The full benefits of the scheme will be delivered by the end of April 2015, when all changes to the road layout will be completed.
The website, systems and infrastructure needed to operate these new arrangements have been installed and are currently being tested to ensure that they operate reliably and are easy to use.

The timetable will ensure that drivers have enough notice to prepare for the changes and that the system is fully tested before it is introduced.

Highways Agency project leader Nigel Gray said:

Dart Charge is a massive change for drivers using the Dartford Crossing and it’s only right that it is thoroughly tested before being introduced.

We want to help drivers to be ready for the improvements we’re making at the Crossing. That’s why we are saying today that Dart Charge will start during late November. We can reassure drivers that we’ll give them plenty of notice before the changes are introduced. They will have considerable time to sign up for a pre-pay account, which for most will be the easiest and cheapest way to pay the charge – with discounts of up to a third on every crossing.

Until Dart Charge goes live, the current payment arrangements for the road user charge at the Crossing will continue – cash at the Crossing, through a DART-Tag or local residents account.

Further details about registering for pre-pay accounts will be announced in due course. In the meantime, customers can find out more information and subscribe for updates on Dart Charge at www.gov.uk/highways/dartford

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.