The bridge toll for all vehicles will be restructured to include value-added tax (VAT) as of July 13, the Bridge Authority announced yesterday.

The government implemented VAT on January 1 at a rate of 7.5 percent.

In an email communication, management of the Bridge Authority said the fee for crossing the Sydney Poitier Bridge will be $1.08 for a single-axle vehicle; $2.15 for a two-axle vehicle; and $3.23 for a three-axle vehicle.

VAT will also be incorporated on the charge for transponders, smart cards and all top ups.

The Bridge Authority said that as of August 13, lanes one and two will be converted to cash only lanes, while lanes three and four will be strictly for transponder and smart card use.

"Fines will be imposed on persons violating the use of lanes three and four, which are for transponder and smart cards only," the authority said.

"The Bridge Authority apologized for any inconvenience that may be caused and assures its customers and stakeholders that all efforts are being made to ensure the efficient operation of services to our customers are minimized."

Labour Minister Shane Gibson, who has ministerial responsibility for the Bridge Authority, could not be reached for comment.

During the 2015/2016 budget debate in May, Gibson revealed that the cost to undertake the repair and strengthening of the exit bridge was approximately $5.3 million.

He said the Bridge Authority will issue bonds to assist in raising funds.

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