THE new year has brought with it the increase in the Severn tolls which was signalled at the end of 2016.

The toll for cars and motor caravans has risen from £6.60 to £6.70, while the cost for small goods vehicles and small buses has risen from £13.20 to £13.40.

The rate for heavy goods vehicles and buses has meanwhile risen by 20p from £19.80 to £20.

A spokesperson from Severn River Crossing PLC said the prices are raised each year in line with inflation, in accordance with the Severn Bridges Act 1992, and although the tolls are set to rise with inflation again at the start of 2018, Monmouth MP David Davies said any news from this point should be positive. An agreement on the future of the tolls and their reduction is expected this year.

“The tolls will come down in 2018, the year the bridge comes into public ownership,”?said Mr Davies. “It is good news and it is something that the Welsh Affairs Committee, which I chair, has made an absolute priority.”

It is expected the potential for cheaper travel across the Severn Crossings may also result in a rise in population to the south of Monmouthshire.

Recent trends show a slight rise in house prices in areas such as Caldicot, Magor and Undy.

According to housing market analysis company Hometrack, Bristol’s house prices rose at a nation-leading rate of 14.7 per cent in the first half of 2016, meaning the comparatively cheaper houses across the bridge may become more attractive with the expected drop in tolls.