New fines could cut congestion on London’s red routes

Transport for London (TfL) is consulting on new proposals to cut congestion on London’s red routes. 

London’s red routes makeup 5% of roads but carry 30% of traffic. 

Under the new proposals, fines for breaking rules would increase to £130 – £160. 

The fines would be issued for: 

• Parking illegally in loading bays
• Blocking yellow box junctions
• Making a turn where this movement is banned, which creates risk for people walking and cycling
• Driving or parking in a bus lane
• Parking illegally on double red lines, or on single red lines at times when parking is not permitted

TfL has highlighted that failing to follow rules and signs at junctions creates safety risks, disrupts traffic and creates congestions.

The cost of fines for contraventions on the red route network has not increased for over ten years.

The last increase was in April 2011 when it rose from £120 to £130. TfL’s proposed increase to £160 is in line with inflation since the last increase.

TfL has said they expect the higher fine level to be a more effective deterrent that will, over time, lead to a reduced level of contraventions and help to keep the road network safe for everyone.

Increased compliance with the rules is also expected to boost bus reliability, reduce congestion, improve air quality and encourage more people to walk and cycle.

TfL’s consultation is now open at haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/penalty-charge-2021 and runs until 19 September.

Siwan Hayward, TfL’s director of compliance and policing, said: ’London’s network of red routes plays a vital role in keeping people moving across the capital and it’s really important that everybody follows the rules that are in place to keep roads clear and to keep people safe.

‘We’d much rather people follow the rules than fine them, and the proposed increase in fines is intended to increase compliance with the rules and make streets safer, cleaner and less congested for everyone. I’d urge people to have their say on these proposals and we welcome all feedback on our plans.’

Photo by Mourad Saadi