THE toll on a Southampton bridge has been scrapped to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Councillors have announced that the Itchen Bridge will be free for everyone to cross from 7pm today.

It currently costs cars, and small vans 70p to cross the bridge and 80p at peak times.

Prices will be lifted for the next three weeks, when the council will review the costs.

Other measures have also been put into place by Southampton City Council, which also aims to support key workers in the city.

Permit parking restrictions will also not be enforced in Resident Parking Zones one to 18, 20, 22 and 23, which will be reviewed on April 30.

The HWRC at Millbrook, the Civic Centre, the cash office and gateway, play parks, public toilets and cafes that were offering take-away in parks to the public have also been closed.

Non-urgent housing repairs will stop but emergency repair services will be maintained.

Leader of the Council Christopher Hammond said: “We all need to do everything we can to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Which is why we’re supporting the government decision to restrict movement and social interaction by closing our buildings and stopping non-essential services.

"Rest assured our essential public services will continue and our priority remains looking after the most vulnerable."

"I’d urge all our residents to adhere to the lockdown and follow the Government’s advice.

"Southampton has faced many challenges in the past. But we’ve always come out the other side stronger by working together and looking out for each other. This time will be no different."