Dartford crossing by Recumbent

[Grldtnr]

I haven't used the river crossing for some years , preferred the Tilbury ferry, as more convenient, but unfortunately that doesn't run anymore.
Any one wise enough to know how to get a recumbent trike across, the current service is limited in hours , and then only by a cycle rack on a truck, as far as I know.
The only alternative is the Woolwich ferry which I don't want to use, as it's more urban cycling than i'd like, or into London via the foot tunnel at Greenwich, equally unattractive.

[[XAP]Bob]

From wikipedia:

"Bicycles are not permitted on the crossing, but cyclists can be carried across the crossing by the transport authority. Section 27 of the Dartford-Thurrock Crossing Act 1988 requires that this service be provided free of charge. Cyclists report to the crossing control offices on either side, using a free telephone service. The transfer takes around 15 to 30 minutes.[100]"

If that's true, then i'd call them in advance and tell them that you're a cyclist who needs transport and describe the cycle.



https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1988/20
"Services for transporting cycles and cyclists through crossing.
(1)The Secretary of State shall either provide, maintain and operate vehicles for the purpose of carrying pedal cycles and cyclists through the crossing or make such arrangements as he considers appropriate with any other person for securing the provision, maintenance and operation of vehicles for that purpose.

(2)No charge shall be made in respect of the carriage of any cycle or cyclist on any vehicle provided by, or in pursuance of arrangements made by, the Secretary of State under subsection (1) above.
"

That looks like it's a legal duty for them to provide passage, even if that means them hiring a van specifically for you.

[Grldtnr]

Presumably includes pedestrians , but that's not what my query is about, I knew that free transport across the crossing was incident from the beginning, but like all things, services are hacked to the bone!
Last time I crossed with a bike there was a hang on rack of the back of a land rover, , but that was late '90's over 25: yes ago.
Either way it's not convenient.

[[XAP]Bob]

I suspect calling them is about the only way to get a reliable answer.

[Aikon]

One of my customers uses the service daily on his cycle commute from Kent to Loughton, he’s welcomed warmly every day and apparently even gets to queue jump the Amazon staff as he’s such a courteous regular.

[Aikon]

I’m sure he’d answer any questions you may have, feel free to ask on here or PM.

[Grldtnr]

That's encouraging, but I got a prompt reply from the helpline for the crossing, saying outside or unconventional bikes need to telephone and reserve ahead, so presumably there's a dedicated service, but also there a sort of timetable of office hrs.
Last time I used it , you went into a loading area, rang a bell and they came out to you when ready.

[[XAP]Bob]

Well at least there is a "ring ahead" option. I suspect they'll turn up with a van specifically for you.

[Grldtnr]

Since the closure of the Tilbury / Gravesend ferry , I do wonder how busy this service is now, otherwise it's a long detour to London ,to the business parks of Lakeside?