The London Lorry Control Scheme focuses on vehicles weighing over 18t and limits their movements at nights and weekends in and around our capital.
note: At the time of writing the scheme is currently Suspended due to the Covid-19 Pandemic
The scheme has been in place for 35 years in some guise or another. Starting life as the Greater London (Restriction of Goods Vehicles) Traffic Order 1985. London Councils control the Traffic Order on behalf of 31 London boroughs, the City of London and on the Transport for London Road Network.
We’ve not seen stats for 2019/20 yet but during 2018-19, nearly 5,000 freight operators and transport companies, along with more than 800 drivers received penalty charge notices (PCNs) for breaching the rules of the London Lorry Control Scheme.
The scheme has often been referred to as a “Lorry Ban” and while residents of some areas and streets would certainly benefit from, and like it to be a ‘ban’ it certainly is not that. The LLCS is set out to control and balance the environmental impact of heavy goods vehicles in London.
So where does the scheme operate and at what times?
The roads on which the scheme applies are known as Restricted Roads. LLCS certainly doesn’t cover every road. There are a collection of roads (pretty critical ones in most cases) in which vehicles over 18t can utilise at any time without permissions or controls. These roads are dubbed ‘ERN’ Excluded Route Network.
Operationally the scheme is enforced during the following hours:
- 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
Drivers need to be very aware of the scheme and the routes when driving during controlled hours. It really is not as simple as ‘getting permission’. Hauliers, their Planners and drivers all have a part to play. Each vehicle will require permission and the driver will then need to utilise the ERN to get as close as possible to the delivery point before using restricted roads for the shortest possible distance. Those without permission are not permitted to use the restricted roads at all and risk receiving a PCN.
Not adhering to the original order was in fact a criminal offence, but this was decriminalised. The haulier and driver no longer face prosecution, but do receive Penalty Charge Notices (PCN). With the Operator having to pay £550 and the driver PCN £130. Just like our parking tickets a prompt payment reduction of 50% is offered if paid within 14 days and you can make an appeal.
At Sussex Transport we certainly take the environment very seriously and work hard to operate a very clean and modern fleet. Our team of drivers and planners work tirelessly to ensure they are aware of all restrictions to ensure we represent you (our customers) and your customers with high levels of professionalism at all times.
If you are looking for a London Haulage Partner then please give our team a call today on 01903 751100 / 0800 915 23 23 or head over to our transport quote form
