Ice cream van owner fined over £1,000 for blocking Westminster Bridge in London

Image credit: Met Police Lambeth North-West

An ice cream van owner who obstructed road access on Westminster Bridge has been fined and ordered to pay costs exceeding £1,000.

On 24 July 2024, Elma Sanli was convicted at Croydon Magistrates' Court for Wilful Obstruction of the Highway. The offence occurred on 29 April 2024.

Sanli was sentenced to a £660 fine, a £264 victim surcharge, and £325 in costs.

A Met Police Lambeth North-West spokesperson said on social media: “Court Result- We have secured another conviction for an offence of Wilful Obstruction of the Highway on Westminster Bridge.

“We will continue to respond to the public's concerns and charge offenders to court to be dealt with.”

This conviction demonstrates the ongoing efforts by the Met Police to address public concerns and maintain clear road access, and drop off access for vehicles like taxis, in busy areas in the capital.