Small businesses should ensure drivers know about the extension to the London Congestion charge area.
And prevent increased cost to business through non-payment of the charge.
Failure to pay the charge has soared by nearly 52%. The figure has been recorded by National Car Rental.
On 19 February 2007, the area covered by the London Congestion Charge was extended westwards.
Its times of operation were reduced by 30 minutes to 0700-1800, Mondays to Fridays.
The cost is £8 per day.
However, National Car Rental – the UK’s largest rental operator predominantly for the business sector – has recorded a jump in the level of fines by over 50% for charge evasion.
The company receives thousands of traffic offence fines incurred by business that rent its cars and vans. Analysis of Q1 2006 v Q1 2007 shows a rise of 51.8% in the level of congestion fines.
“Fines for failing to pay the Congestion Charge decreased year on year by almost 10% in January and February 2007. But in March 2007 the number of fines jumped by over 50%,” commented Frank Reynolds, SME specialist, National Car Rental.
“It suggests the extension of the charging zone on 19 February caught a lot of drivers off guard.”
Drivers can pay up to midnight on the day of travel. Or a next day payment costs £10. The charge for non-payment is £100.
Further information
- More detail about the London Congestion Charge – how much, times of operation, and vehicle exemptions – is available in the Business Car Manager Law & Tax section here www.businessmotoring.co.uk.
Greater volume of fines recorded by National survey
