CONGESTION CHARGE

The London Congestion Charge is applicable between 7am and 6.30pm, Monday to Friday, excluding Public Holidays.

Where is It?
The original 'boundary' of the zone is formed by the Inner Ring Road. From February 2007, the zone is extended west as far as and including Notting Hill and Kensington.

Who Pays?
All vehicles driving into charge zone will have to pay. However, some vehicles are exempt from the charge (for example, taxis, licenced minicabs, emergency services, blue/orange badge holders and alternative energy vehicles). Others are entitled to a discount - mainly residents, but also some vehicle breakdown services.


How to Pay?
Drivers pay £8 per day, by telephone, text message, post, internet, or in person at a retail outlet. You must pay on the day you travel. If you pay the next day the charge is £10. Drivers can also purchase weekly, monthly or annual passes.

The scheme is policed by cameras on roads around the centre of the city which are able to read car registration plates.

What if I don't pay or forget?
You will be issued with a penalty charge notice. If you pay within 14 days it is £50, within 28 days it is £100, thereafter the charge goes up to £150. The penalty charge notice goes to the registered keeper of the vehicle.

What's it for?
The scheme is to encourage people to choose other forms of transport.

It is not a 'cordon' scheme based only on cameras at the boundaries. Any vehicle moving within the zone, whether or not crossing boundary, will be monitored by cameras throughout the zone.

Why ?
Traffic movement in central and inner London is severely hampered by congestion - the average speed is less than three miles per hour.

Transport for London says the charge will reduce congestion, improve the bus network, and make central London a more pleasant location for residents, visitors and businesses.

 

Note: All info believed correct at time of original publication. Contact TFL for full up to date information. Contact your lawyer if you plan to contest a congestion penalty charge notice.