Frequently asked questions for London Lorry Control Scheme

What is the London Lorry Control Scheme?

The LLCS controls the movement of heavy goods vehicles over 18 tonnes maximum gross weight, at night and at weekends on specific roads on London’s road network. The scheme has been in place since 1985 under the Greater London (Restriction of Goods Vehicles) Traffic Order 1985 and is enforced utilising the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003. The scheme is in place to help minimise noise pollution in residential areas during unsociable hours through restricted use of these roads.

My vehicle meets Euro 5 and 6 standards and is very quiet in transit, why am I still being penalised?

Current enforcement of the LLCS is not undertaken on the basis of actual noise but on the weight of each vehicle. Whilst we will be assessing the future feasibility of enforcing in such a way it is not currently possible. It must also be stated that the noise of vehicles is not necessarily all down to the engine. Factors such as trailer noise, brakes, rattling, ambient air noise and noise related to poor vehicle maintenance are all factors. 

I have been requested to make a delivery at a specific time of the day, within the controlled hours of the scheme, what should I do?

The LLCS does not prohibit deliveries at any time of the day or night it simply controls the routes that vehicles should take. If you do need to make a delivery during the hours of the scheme we would expect you to comply with the terms and condition and plan your routes accordingly. There may be certain environmental conditions at any delivery/collection address relating to delivery times. These are independent of the LLCS and should be checked accordingly.

How can I obtain routing advice?

The best way to discuss your compliant route planning is to contact the Lorry Control Unit. Email us at lorry.control@londoncouncils.gov.uk

Where are the Lorry Control signs located?

In accordance with the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 (Greater London (Restriction of Goods Vehicles) Traffic Order 1985), there is no requirement to place signage on each stretch of restricted road.

The scheme includes roads within the M25, covered by the London wide traffic order for the movement of vehicles weighing over 18 tonnes. Signs can be found where the ‘excluded route network’ (ERN) meets a ‘restricted road’.

What do the London Lorry Control Scheme signs look like?

How can I contact the Lorry Control Unit?

We are happy to assist you, contact the Lorry Control Unit by emailing us at lorry.control@londoncouncils.gov.uk or by phone 020 7934 9697.

Where are the overnight lorry parks in London?

To find out locations to park your vehicle 

I am unable to access your on-line system, what do I do?

We apologise for this inconvenience, please email lorry.control@londoncouncils.gov.uk or call us on 020 7934 9697 and we will do our best to assist you.

Where can I park to load/unload?

Unfortunately London Councils does not host this level of information for parking and loading in the city. To assist you with loading/unloading rules please follow this link: - http://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/parking-services/parking-and-traffic/parking-advice-members-public/loading-and-unloading

Additionally you can find out specific information you need in advance of your journey by contacting the borough in which you have business. All London borough contact information can be accessed by following this link: London Councils Directory

Do I have to pay Congestion Charge?

Congestion Charging is applicable to all vehicles travelling in certain parts of London. The Congestion Charge applies an £11.50 daily charge for driving a vehicle within the charging zone between 07:00 and 18:00, Monday to Friday. The scheme is managed by Transport for London and all information can be found by following this link: TfL Congestion Charging

What other schemes should I be aware of before I travel into London?

Other schemes not managed by London Councils, that may be of interest to you include: Local Authority restrictions, The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, Safer Lorry Scheme, Direct Vision Standard, Ultra Low Emissions Zone, T-Zone, Low Emissions Zone, Congestion Charging and Construction Logistics and Community Safety.

Where can I view the Traffic Management Order governing the scheme?

The scheme is governed by the Greater London (Restriction of Goods Vehicles) Traffic Order 1985 and is enforced using the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003. A copy of the order can be found by following this link: http://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/download/file/fid/438 {may need to review this link}

How is the scheme enforced?

The scheme is currently enforced on the roadside by a team of enforcement officers (EO’s). Information provided by an EO informs the back office team to investigate the observations and decide whether it is appropriate to commence the statutory process or to take no further action.  

What is a permission?

A permission is subject to approval by London Councils and allows you to travel in London during the restricted hours of the scheme. If you have business in London, a permission allows you to gain access to the restricted roads in a controlled way.

Each vehicle permission is valid for a period of five years. Without gaining permission for your vehicle(s) you have no entitlement to travel on restricted roads in London during the operational hours of the scheme.

A permission does not allow unrestricted access to use London’s roads but controls how you operate your vehicle(s) in Greater London. Applications for permission are free, completed online and simple to complete. To ensure your vehicle(s) are compliant with the scheme and to avoid the possible issuance of a PCN, you must register all of your vehicles weighing over 18 tonnes.

You will be required to demonstrate your understanding of the scheme and agree to the terms and conditions before permission is granted.

How do I register for a haulier account with London Councils?

Your entire haulier needs can now be managed on-line, just visit www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol

What are the hours of control?

  • Monday - Friday: 9pm - 7am (including 9pm Friday night to 7am Saturday morning).
  • Saturday: 1pm - 7am Monday morning.
  • Normal restrictions apply during public and bank holidays

What are the Restricted Roads?

The roads on which the Scheme applies are known as "restricted roads". You will need permission to access deliveries/collections situated on these roads.

What is the Excluded Route Network?

There is a core network of routes, usually trunk roads and similar, along which HGVs can travel at any time without needing permission to do so. These roads are collectively called the ‘Excluded Route Network’.

Do I need permission for every vehicle I operate?

Yes, if you need to drive any HGV over 18 tonnes, on any of the restricted roads during the controlled hours then you need to apply for permission for each vehicle. It’s free to apply for permission.

How long does permission last?

An individual vehicle permission lasts for a period of five years.

How much does a permission cost?

The permissions are free. London Councils primary objective is to ensure that your vehicles comply with the regulations.

How many vehicles can I have on my haulier account?

There is no limit to the amount of vehicles that you register to the London Lorry Control Scheme.

Do I need prior agreement for London Councils for every journey I make?

No. If you can demonstrate, through the application process, that you understand how the scheme works and you plan each of your journeys in advance, there is no need to notify London Councils of every journey you take.

How do I add or remove a vehicle from my haulier account?

It is easy. Access your haulier account with your unique username (haulier account number) and password at: - www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol and the option to add or delete vehicles will be made available to you.

How will I know when to renew my vehicle permission?

London Councils will send you notification by email 60 days before your permission is due to expire. Please keep your email contact details up to date so that you don’t miss your reminder to renew.

How do I renew my permission?

It is easy. Access your haulier account with your unique username (haulier account number) and password at: - www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol and the option to renew your permission for specific vehicles will be made available to you.

What do I do if I forget to add a vehicle to my haulier account?

It is important to keep all of the details on your account up to date. Regular checks on the haulier portal which is available 24 hours a day and accessible from any computer or mobile device, should reduce the risk of forgetting to add a new vehicle. If you do forget to add a vehicle you may receive a PCN.

I have just acquired some temporary vehicles what do I need to do?

The haulier portal is available 24 hours a day and can be accessed from any computer or mobile device. It is your responsibility to ensure all of the details on your account are up to date, including recently acquired vehicles and temporary vehicles. Vehicles must be added to your account prior to being used on restricted roads during the controlled hours of the scheme.

I only carry out business in London occasionally. Do I still need to apply for permission?

Yes, we want to make sure your vehicles comply with the regulations. If you undertake any journeys which utilise the restricted roads, you must have permission to do so otherwise you may receive a PCN.

I have changed my contact details, how do I amend them?

It is easy. Access your haulier account with your unique username (haulier account number) and password at:  - www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol, you can edit your contact details at any time. It is really important that you keep your contact details up to date.

I have forgotten my password how can I get another one?

It is easy. Log on to the website, www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol, enter your username (haulier account number) and request a new password. A new password will be sent to the email address you have provided on your haulier account.

What type of PCN can be issued for breach of the scheme?

There are several PCNs that can be issued and they are placed in two categories: Operator and Driver PCN.

There are four types of Operator PCN.

  • No Permit – the vehicle does not have permission to drive in London during the operational hours of the scheme.
  • No documentation – the vehicle has permission to operate in London but the operator has failed to produce evidence to substantiate the vehicle movements on the day i.e. dated and timed delivery note/schedule
  • Not substantiated – the operator has provided insufficient evidence to substantiate the vehicle movements on the day i.e. dated and timed delivery note/schedule
  • Failure to minimise - the operator has provided evidence to substantiate the vehicle movements on the day, however it is determined by the Lorry Control Unit, that better use could have been made of the ERN to reach their destination.

There are two types of Driver PCN.

  • No Permit – the vehicle does not have permission to drive in London during the operational hours of the scheme.
  • Failure to minimise - the operator has provided evidence to substantiate the vehicle movements on the day, however it is determined by the Lorry Control Unit, that better use could have been made of the ERN to reach their destination.

What is the difference between an Operator and Driver Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)?

The Operator PCN is issued to the hirer or owner of the vehicle, whereas the driver PCN is issued to the person in charge of the vehicle at the time of the contravention.

What is the cost of the PCN?

The cost of the Operator PCN is at a higher rate of £550 and the driver PCN is at the lower rate of £130

I was not parked so why have I received a PCN?

The London Lorry Control Scheme is a moving traffic contravention, governed by the London Local Authority and Transport for London Act 2003. London Councils would not issue a PCN if your vehicle was stationary. You should check the detail of any PCN you receive and contact the issuing authority if you are unsure of the circumstances in which it was issued.

I am a registered haulier and have received an EF119 (enquiry letter), what should I do?

London Councils have contacted you to investigate why your vehicle was seen at a particular location. It is important for you respond to the EF119 and provide the requested information to substantiate the reason why your vehicle was at the observed location. This process is in place to help avoid a PCN being issued unnecessarily at a later date.

I have responded to the EF119 (enquiry letter), when should I expect a response?

The London Control Unit will aim to respond to you within 10 days of the contravention.

I made representation against a PCN, when should I expect a response?

The London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 does not stipulate a time for London Councils to respond. However, it is good practice for London Councils to respond to your correspondence within 56 days.

What will happen if I do not pay the PCN?

If you do not pay or make representation against the PCN, the charges will incrementally increase in line with the legislation.

What is the statutory process?

If your vehicle is registered with the London Lorry Control Scheme and permitted to travel in London, we may contact you if your vehicle is observed on a restricted road. In the first instance we will issue an EF119 (enquiry letter). This is an informal process giving you the opportunity to provide evidence to substantiate why your vehicle was using a restricted road at a location on a specific date, at a specific time prior to the formal statutory process commencing. We request that you submit any evidence within 14 days of the date of the letter.

The statutory process commences with the issue of a PCN, which must be responded to or paid before the end of the period of 28 days, beginning with the date of the Notice. If payment is made before the end of a period of 14 days beginning with the date of the notice the amount payable is reduced by 50%. 

If you decide to make representations, this must be undertaken during the 28 day period. London Councils will consider your representation and either accept or reject them.

If representation is made within 14 days of the date of the notice and formally rejected, you will be re offered the reduced rate. If your representation is rejected you will have a further 28 days to either pay or apply to London Tribunals to have your case formally heard by an independent adjudicator. The adjudicators’ decision is final. Any representations received after the 28 day period may be disregarded. 

If the PCN is not paid before the end of the 28 day period a Charge Certificate may be issued, increasing the penalty charge by 50%. Should payment still remain outstanding after 14 days London Councils may register the charge as a debt with the County Court and an additional £8 administration charge will be added. This will result in an Order for Recovery being issued.

If the debt remains outstanding after 21 days of the issue of the Order for Recovery, London Councils will register with a bailiff agency to recover the outstanding amount.

How do I challenge a PCN?

It is easy, access our at: www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol and select ‘Manage cases’ from the menu or ‘click here’ in order to:

   •  View details related to your Case or PCN

   •  Reply to an Enquiry Letter

   •  Make a Representation

   •  Contact us about a Case or PCN

   •  Pay PCNs

You will be asked to enter your PCN number and vehicle registration number, and then you can complete your online representation.

I don’t agree with the decision you made against my challenge, how do I make an appeal?

These are the only grounds on which you may appeal against a London Lorry Control Scheme PCN:

1. You were not the operator of the vehicle at the time of the alleged contravention

2. There was no contravention of the lorry ban order

3. The penalty exceeded the amount applicable in the circumstances

If you do not agree with the decision regarding the representation, then you may appeal to London Tribunals on one of the above grounds. For more information on how to appeal please visit http://www.londontribunals.gov.uk

I am a registered haulier but I have lost the details of my PCN, how do I pay or challenge it?

If you have a haulier account, all of you outstanding PCNs will be visible to you, just log on to the website, www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol, enter your username (haulier account number) and view the stage of any PCN issued to you. You can pay or challenge any PCN from within your account.

I am not a registered haulier but I have lost the details of my PCN, how do I pay or challenge it?

It is unfortunate that you have not yet registered an account with us. You should do so without delay. There are no costs associated with the London Lorry Control Scheme permissions. The permissions are free and London Councils primary objective is to ensure that your vehicles comply with the regulations.

You can contact the Lorry Control Unit and request details of your missing PCN information by emailing lorry.control@londoncouncils.gov.uk

If I do not pay the PCN will I be issued with a County Court Judgment?

No, however London Councils may instruct an Enforcement Agent (bailiff) to collect the outstanding debt.

If I do not pay the PCN will I be sent to prison?

No, the London Lorry Control Scheme is a civil offence not a criminal offence.

How can I see how many PCNs I have pending payment?

If you have a haulier account all of you outstanding PCNs will be visible to you, just log on to the website, www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol enter your unique username (haulier account number) and password and view the status of your PCNs.

Where can I view the contravention? Is there photographic evidence or CCTV footage?

The London Lorry Control Scheme is not currently enforced by CCTV cameras. The scheme is enforced on the roadside by a team of enforcement officers who make contemporaneous notes of any potential contravention. London Councils is exploring ways of improving enforcement methodology to allow noted contraventions to be seen on our website.

My routes were approved by Lorry Route, why have I received a PCN?

You may have an approved route provided by an independent organisation, such as Lorry Route. Please be advised that London Councils legally manages the scheme and cannot guarantee that routes provided by Lorry Route or any other organisation are compliant, which may result in a PCN being issued. To help you avoid any further notices, I advise you register your vehicle(s) by visiting our website. www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol

 

I have sold the vehicle, what information do I need to provide to transfer liability?

We will require evidence of bill of sale to transfer liability.

I am a hire company, what information do I need to provide to transfer liability?

We will require evidence of a hire/lease agreement to transfer liability.

I am unable to provide proof of transfer of liability for a vehicle I no longer use, what should I do?

Without supporting evidence of a hire/lease agreement or bill of sale we are unable to transfer liability. You should contact the person you passed the vehicle to gain the required information to enable London Councils to transfer liability.

My vehicle was not at that location on the day in question?

You will need to provide evidence to support your claim to enable London Councils to transfer liability.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept most credit/debit cards.

You must quote your PCN reference and vehicle registration number. We do not advise you to send cash through the post.

Why do both Operator and Driver PCNs have to be paid?

Under the traffic order governing the London Lorry Control Scheme (Greater London (Restriction of Goods Vehicles) Traffic Order 1985 London Local Authorities & Transport for London Act 2003) and enforcement legislation, liability sits with both the operator and the driver.

Is VAT added to the cost of the PCN?

There is no VAT added to the cost of the PCN.

How do I pay a PCN?

All payments can be made online by accessing website: www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/lorrycontrol you can make payment through the link ‘manage cases’, or pay by phone 0845 6803705. You will need your PCN number e.g. LB00112233 and your vehicle registration number. Accepted credit/debit cards will be listed. Alternatively you can send payment by cheque or Postal Order through the post to:

London Lorry Control

59 ½ Southwark Street

London

SE1 0AL

You must quote your PCN reference and vehicle registration number. We do not advise you to send cash through the post.

How are the payment rates calculated for PCNs?

PCN levels in London are set by London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee (TEC). TEC is made up of representatives of the 33 local authorities in London, as well as Transport for London. Responsibility for fine levels under the LLA and TFL Act 2003 are defined under the terms of the Traffic Management Act 2004. TEC is responsible, subject to approval by the Mayor of London and ratification from the Secretary of State for Transport, for setting additional parking charges on London’s borough roads. These include the levels set for the London Lorry Control Scheme.

How can I complain about vehicle noise on my road?

The scheme is in place to help minimise noise pollution in residential areas during unsociable hours through restricted use of these roads. If you are concerned about the amount of HGV movement on your road during the operational hours of the scheme, you should contact us and log your complaint through our website https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/london-lorry-control/contact-us

How do I make a general complaint?

If you wish to make a complaint, or enquire about progress of your complaint you can email complaints@londoncouncils.gov.uk or call us on 020 7934 9854 or write to us:

Corporate Complaints Officer

Corporate Governance

London Councils

59½ Southwark Street

London

SE1 0AL

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