Drivers across a popular London borough are set to receive compensation for penalties issued during the controversial West Dulwich Street Improvements scheme.
The refunds follow a High Court ruling that found the council's consultation process was unfair, with drivers now advised to apply for compensation.
The traffic restrictions, which were introduced on a trial basis in September 2024, have now been removed after a court ruling in May found that the council was guilty of a "masterclass in selective partial reporting" in how it presented consultation outcomes.
Motorists who paid PCNs for driving through traffic filters at five locations in West Dulwich can now apply for refunds through a dedicated form on the council's website.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailing motoring@gbnews.uk
GETTY | Lambeth Council was forced to remove its LTN following a High Court ruling
The scheme's enforcement cameras and signage have been dismantled following the court order, the council detailed. The Low Traffic Neighbourhood was established to reduce road danger and create safer, healthier neighbourhoods for residents.
The scheme included traffic filters to remove through-traffic, along with new seating, cycle parking and greenery across the area.
The five locations where PCNs were issued and are now eligible for refunds include Ardlui Road, Carson Road, Chatsworth Way, Eastmearn Road and Tulsemere Road.
These traffic filters formed part of the council's broader ambition to encourage active travel and improve air quality across the borough.
PA
|The LTN was put in place in September 2024 despite objections by residents
The scheme faced significant opposition from local residents and businesses, who mounted a crowdfunded legal challenge described as a "David vs Goliath" scenario.
The West Dulwich Action Group raised more than £46,000 to cover legal costs and submitted a 53-page dossier highlighting concerns about worsening air pollution and traffic displacement onto boundary roads.
The High Court challenge succeeded on one of three grounds, with Judge Smith finding that Lambeth's consultation process was fundamentally flawed.
The judge criticised the council's approach, noting errors ranging from "the inconvenient", such as printing reference numbers only on envelopes, to "more significant" failures in delivering printed materials.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The ruling highlighted an "apparent flaw" in the council's mistaken belief that a first consultation was "less important" because a second would follow.
Judge Smith also criticised the council's official notes of a public meeting, stating "it is what it does not say that renders the reporting of the event misleading".
The court heard there had been "considerable hostility and anger" from residents, with approximately 67.5 per cent opposing the scheme during consultations.
The refund process applies specifically to PCNs that were issued and paid in relation to the West Dulwich Street Improvement Scheme.
PA | Low Traffic Neighbourhoods can see drivers fined £130 for travelling in the area without a permit
PCNs that had not yet been paid have been cancelled automatically, with the council stating that its approach manages the operational and technical challenges while ensuring "the right refund is paid to the right person."
Lambeth Council emphasised it has a duty to all taxpayers to ensure public money is managed responsibly. The council will also be undertaking pavement repairs in July and August where tree roots have caused damage, using breathable, flexible materials to make pavements safer and more accessible.
Councillor Rezina Chowdhury acknowledged the court's decision while defending the council's broader transport strategy. "The council has delivered an ambitious and successful programme across Lambeth to make our neighbourhoods more pleasant, and roads safer, more vibrant, green and accessible," she said.
Chowdhury insisted that the authority remained fully committed to working with local communities to "transform streets across the borough and get on with our programme to deliver benefits for everyone".