Request ID: FOI-0284-2223 Date published: 27 May 2022
You asked
Dear TFL
Please see FOI request below.
1. Number of Ulez Penalty charge notes issued by Camera U448 63 Claps Gate lane Contravention Location (Access to Becton Triangle Retail Park) since the introduction of Ulez charge per month.
2. Number of Ulez Penalty charge notes issued by Camera A406 Junction with Romford rd, E12 Contravention Location (Romford Rd towards Manor Park) since the introduction of Ulez charge per month.
Number of ULEZ Penalty Charge Notices issued by Camera U448 63 Claps Gate Lane Contravention Location (Access to Becton Triangle Retail Park) since the introduction of the ULEZ charge per month.
Number of ULEZ Penalty Charge Notices issued by Camera A406 Junction with Romford Rd, E12 Contravention Location (Romford Rd towards Manor Park) since the introduction of the ULEZ charge per month.
I can confirm that we hold the information you require. However, the number of ULEZ PCNs issued at specific camera locations is exempt from disclosure under Regulation 12(5)(g) of the EIR, the exception that can apply where release of information would have an adverse impact on the environment. The rationale for this is explained below.
The aim of the ULEZ scheme is to improve air quality in London by deterring the most polluting vehicles from driving in the zone, and thereby reduce levels of pollutants that have been proven to damage human health through conditions such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses. When information is released under the EIR it is considered to be released to the world at large rather than the individual applicant. Releasing information on the number of PCNs issued by a specific camera over a specified time period would enable those who wish to avoid detection to deduce which enforcement cameras are and aren’t operational and to enter or drive within the zone, defeating the purpose of the scheme. If vehicle owners suspect they can avoid the charge by targeting specific locations they believe to be enforced less than others, whether or not that perception is misguided, the likely result is that there would be an increase in non-compliant vehicles entering the zone and removes the incentive to adapt their vehicle, or reduce its use, in line with the scheme’s objectives. This in turn will affect the level of improvement in air quality. The specific numbers of PCNs issued by individual cameras is therefore excepted from disclosure.
The use of this exception is subject to an assessment of the ‘Public Interest Test’, to determine whether the greater public interest rests in applying the exception or in releasing the information in any event. We appreciate the need for openness and transparency in the operation of our business, and the fact that you have requested the information is in itself an argument for release. However, in this instance we believe that the balance of overall public interest rests in ensuring compliance with the ULEZ scheme in order to ensure its objectives can be met. The scheme is designed to improve the environment for everyone in London, and the information that the public need to comply with the scheme - including a map of the area covered and a postcode checker - is proactively published on our website here: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/ultra-low-emission-zone For these reasons we believe the greater public interest rests in the exception applying.
The recipient of a PCN has the legal right to challenge the PCN if they believe it has been issued incorrectly.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Sara Thomas FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
