New LTNs and School Streets drive 41.3% INCREASE in fines issued to London’s motorists

London boroughs, London Lorry Control Scheme and Transport for London (TfL) issued a whopping total of 7,472,886 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) to motorists in the capital who they believed fell foul of parking, bus lane and moving traffic regulations.

This represents an increase in PCNs issued of 41.3% from 2020-21, as traffic flows and parking demand increased after the pandemic, and enforcement authorities in London recommenced their enforcement operations in all areas.

London Councils published data on parking enforcement and appeals in London for the 2021-22 financial year, ending on 31 March 2022, which revealed the huge rise across the capital.

Whilst there was reduced enforcement activity during the height of the pandemic in 2020-21, there is overall increase of 21.4% of PCNs issued based on pre-pandemic figures between 2019-20.

According to London Council sources the big rise in PCNs was largely due to an increase in the number of Moving Traffic Contravention (MTC) PCNs issued of 55.42%. The main reason for this has been the introduction of the new Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and School Streets. These came into force to manage traffic flows and encourage social distancing during the pandemic, whilst also improving road safety and air quality, especially around schools for the protection of school pupils and residents within the locality.

The number of all appeals received by London Tribunals in 2021-22 has increased by 37.4% from 2020-21 levels. Statistics indicate that the total percentage number of appeals allowed is down from the previous year to 42.8%.

All income from PCNs is put towards paying for the provision of traffic and parking services. Any surplus is invested in other important transport projects, such as the Freedom Pass concessionary travel scheme for older and disabled Londoners.