Low Traffic Neighbourhoods force UK drivers to fork out £91million in fines
There are more than 100 permanent LTN schemes around the UK
PA
Fines from Low Traffic Neighbourhoods have increased a staggering 30 per cent, with motorists forking out more than £3.1million.
Low Traffic Neighbourhoods have been rolled out across the UK, with councils using them to reduce congestion and limit the amount of vehicles in residential areas.
New research has found that Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for Low Traffic Neighbourhoods rose by 30 per cent in 2022, compared to the previous year.
Last year, almost 675,000 LTN fines were handed out, a significant increase from the 519,780 fines issued in 2021.
Fines from LTNs increased by 30 per cent in 2022
PA
Between January and May of this year, motorists have also been slapped with 264,920 fines from Low Traffic Neighbourhoods.
The schemes have been met with mixed reviews, with some arguing that they are an impediment for drivers, while others praise the schemes for reducing traffic and emissions.
They are also used to promote walking and cycling as the best methods for shorter, inner-city journeys.
Since the start of 2021, councils using LTNs have issued fines worth more than £91million for driving in these neighbourhoods.
The data, from Churchill Motor Insurance, found that £10.9million worth of fines have already been handed out to hard-pressed drivers this year.
Last year saw a peak in total fines for LTNs with a massive £40.8million charge for motorists breaching road rules.
Motorists who don’t have a valid exemption issued by their local council can receive a £130 PCN fine, although this can be reduced to £65 if it is paid within 14 days.
Nicholas Mantel, Head of Churchill Motor Insurance, commented on the data, saying that motorists should act to make sure they aren’t caught out by the LTN rules.
He said: “Low traffic neighbourhoods are a controversial issue, and our research shows the number of motorists impacted is increasing.
“More councils are rolling out the schemes in their areas and the number of individual LTNs is also rising.
“When driving in major towns and cities, motorists should try to keep their satnavs up to date and look out for any new road signs to avoid being caught out for driving new LTNs.”
There are a total of 103 permanent LTNs in operation in 2023, compared with 87 in 2021. London operates the most schemes, with Islington having a total of 29 LTNs.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Drivers can be fined £130 for breaching LTN rules
PA
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently announced that the Government would be launching a review into Low Traffic Neighbourhoods.