Slashing Severn Bridge tolls in half will boost Monmouthshire’s economy, a county councillor said last week.

Despite a recent 1.3 percent increase, charges to cross the Severn Bridge will be cut in half next year.

Councillor Bob Greenland, deputy leader at Monmouthshire County Council, said the measure will have a significant and positive effect on the local economy.

“Monmouthshire County Council believes that the reduction in Severn Bridge tolls in 2018 will have a positive impact on Monmouthshire’s economy,” he said.

“It is our intention to continue to promote Monmouthshire as the place to develop businesses that cover southern Wales and the west of England.

“This promotional activity will be escalated in the coming months with emphasis on the reducing costs of tolls, whilst also promoting southern Monmouthshire as a quality shopping destination.

“In 2015, tourism was worth £187 million to the economy of Monmouthshire, of which day visits generated £53 million.

“This is expected to increase when tolls are reduced or removed given anecdotal evidence that the tolls discourage tourist coach traffic and day trippers. Survey evidence suggests that 22% of residents said they would expect to make more trips to Wales in the next twelve months if the Severn tolls were removed.” he said.

Housing provision, a pressing issue in the county, would remain challenging, said Mr Greenland.

“Clearly with more jobs comes the need for more housing, with additional school places an important consideration. We have already asked for a fresh look at our housing allocation.

“This will be particularly important if there is pressure for those living close to Bristol to move to Monmouthshire,” he added.