Drivers warned as parking and traffic fines could spike under major new proposals
Parking and traffic fines could get more expensive
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Drivers are being urged to act and give their views on a consultation which could see parking and traffic charges rise in the near future.
Since the end of July, London Councils has been consulting on the level of penalty charges for parking and traffic contraventions.
Any potential changes would apply to roads controlled by all London boroughs, including the City of London.
London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee has not reviewed parking, bus lane and moving traffic penalty charges since 2010, with many charges remaining the same since 2007.
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The number of PCNs issued in London has increased by 50 per cent over the last 12 years, with London boroughs concerned that the current penalties are not enough of a deterrent.
Some motorists have been found to park in illegal areas because it is easier for them to pay the charge rather than look for suitable parking spaces.
Because of the rising rate of inflation, there has been a reduction in the real value of the charges and fees over time.
Roads in the capital are split, with some controlled by London boroughs and others controlled by Transport for London.
In 2022, TfL increased the cost of parking, bus lane and moving traffic penalty charges on roads from £130 to £160.
Mayor Philip Glanville, London Councils Executive Member for Climate Change, Transport and Environment, said: “London boroughs are committed to making our roads safe and accessible for everyone.
“By effectively managing parking and traffic we can incentivise people to drive and park safely, protect access, crossing and junctions, and increase active travel such as walking, cycling and rented e-scooter use.
“We can also improve bus prioritisation, reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.”
The current maximum penalty charge level for contraventions on borough roads remains at £130, with London Councils looking to increase the price.
Drivers can expect a response from London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee about the consultation on December 7, 2023.
Fines for bus lanes and other moving traffic conventions will result in a £130 fine, although the fines will be halved if they pay within 14 days.
Mayor Glanville added: “The consultation is a crucial part of the Transport and Environment Committee’s decision-making process on penalty charge levels and additional fees, and anyone who uses London’s roads can have their say on the new proposals.
“We are dedicated to ensuring the plans don’t negatively impact lower income and more vulnerable people and welcome all input into this consultation.”
Other charges include £70 to remove a wheel clamp, £200 to release a car from a pound, as well as a £40 per day storage fee.
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Analysis of the consultation will be unveiled in December
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The consultation has been live since July 31, with motorists having until this evening to respond with their views.
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