Our Ref:         FOI-0952-2021

Thank you for your request received on 1 September 2020 asking for information about Congestion Charge Zone revenue since the charge was increased.
 
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require.
 
Under its funding package, the Government required TfL to bring forward proposals to widen the scope and level of the Congestion Charge and the Mayor approved the changes.  From 22 June the Congestion Charge, which covers around one per cent of Greater London, was temporarily increased to £15, and the hours of operation changed to 07:00-22:00 seven days a week These temporary changes  are essential to prevent London’s recovery from the pandemic from being restricted by cars and congestion. Analysis showed that as the Government eased restrictions, and if people chose to drive instead of using public transport, car traffic in central London could double.
 
Clogged up roads are a major barrier to economic recovery while also disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable. The cost of congestion in London is £5.5bn per year with the capital's drivers losing more than 200 hours per year due to being stuck in traffic. Blocked roads push up the costs to business, with unpredictable journey times and deliveries running late.
 
The changes are now reducing traffic in the zone, making it safer for people to walk or cycle and keeping the bus network reliable. Net revenue raised from the Congestion Charge is reinvested into the transport network to make it as safe, efficient and reliable as possible.
 
Since 22 June 2020, and up to and including 22 August 2020 (our last financial period end), TfL received £45.7m in Congestion Charge payments and £9.3m in PCN income.
 
If this is not the information you are looking for please feel free to contact me.
 
The impact of current circumstances on TfL’s resources means we are not able to answer FOI requests readily and we ask that you please do not make a request to us at present.
 
Answering FOI requests will require the use of limited resources and the attention of staff who could be supporting other essential activity. In any event, please note that our response time will be affected by the current situation.
 
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Gemma Jacob
Senior FOI Case Officer
FOI Case Management Team
General Counsel
Transport for London
[email protected]