The Bergsche Maasveren will no longer be free from next summer. After almost 120 years, this brings an end to a tradition. From now on, motorized traffic will have to pay if use is made of the Bernse Veer, the Capelse Veer and the Drongelense Veer. An exception is made only for agricultural vehicles.
The crossing will also remain free for cyclists and pedestrians. The measure is necessary because the foundation suffers an average loss of more than 700,000 euros annually.
After almost 120 years
Mathé Holleman, chairman of the Bergsche Maasveren Foundation: “It is very bitter to have to ask for compensation after almost 120 years, but the permanent accessibility for residents is more important than tradition.”
The three ferries are important for the accessibility of the municipalities of Altena, Heusden and Waalwijk in Brabant and Zaltbommel in Gelderland. Since 2009, they have also been responsible for the management and maintenance of the ferry connections. But the money they have received from the government for this, almost 23 million euros, is not enough to keep the ferries in service permanently.
‘Can’t do anything else’
Holleman: “Month after month, we are now using up tens of thousands of euros from our equity. This is an unsustainable situation that we cannot do otherwise.” The foundation had asked the four municipalities to contribute one to two hundred thousand euros annually. That was too much for them, after which it was decided to start asking motorized traffic for money.
The municipal councils of the four municipalities still have to approve the decision. If that has happened, the scheme will take effect on 17 July. Fixed users can take out a subscription and receive a discount. Tickets are only sold online, eliminating the need for additional staff.