Private toll road closes without profit

Mike Watts opened a toll road across farmland in August after the A431 Kelston Road, a very busy commuter route, was forced to close following a landslip.

Mr Watts spent £150,000 building the road and estimates he has spent a further £150,000 in running costs, leaving him with a £300,000 bill and the threat of losing his home if the gamble did not pay off.

On Monday 17 November the A431 reopened, leaving Mike's private road out of business. Today presenter John Humphrys spoke to Mike to find out if his investment had paid off.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Monday 17 November.

  • UK