TfL confirms Blackwall Tunnel PCN glitch affecting exempt taxis as driver representatives provide update
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 29
A fault in Transport for London’s (TfL) system led to Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) being incorrectly issued to a number of London taxi drivers using the Blackwall Tunnel on 16 June.
The United Cabbies Group (UCG) first confirmed that TfL identified the issue as a technical error. The problem caused a small number of PCNs to be sent to licensed taxi drivers despite their vehicles being exempt from such charges.
According to UCG, the VRMs they have received from members of affected vehicles have been passed to TfL, which is now working to cancel the PCNs issued in error. UCG has advised its members to check TfL’s system from Tuesday or Wednesday next week to confirm the PCNs have been removed.
Later on that same day a spokesperson from the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) said: “Any member receiving TFL PCN's for ULEZ, Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels dated 16th June please don't worry or call the LTDA as following TFL identifying the issue they WILL be cancelled without the need to challenge them.”
London’s black cabs are legally exempt from several road charging schemes, including the Congestion Charge and, in this case, restrictions linked to the Blackwall Tunnel. These exemptions are designed to support the essential transport role that licensed taxis provide, including their accessibility requirements and regulation by TfL.
The Blackwall Tunnel, which connects Greenwich and Tower Hamlets under the River Thames, is a critical route for many professional drivers. While private vehicles are subject to specific restrictions and charges, licensed London taxis are not.
A United Cabbies Group (UCG) spokesperson said on social media: “PCN Update on glitch for Blackwall Tunnel tickets issued for 16 June 2025.
“I've just spoken with the TfL contact and they have identified the glitch at their end and it appears to be an error where a small number of tickets have been issued for this date and for the tunnel despite taxis being exempt.
“TfL have been sent the VRM of the vehicles for those members who have sent us their PCN's so far and will now begin to go through and cancel those issued in error at their end.
“You do not need to submit an appeal, but they advise you check the PCN is showing as cancelled on the link below from Tuesday/Wednesday next week once they have cancelled them via the main system.”
