Request ID: FOI-1227-2223 Date published: 13 September 2022
You asked
Revised request following FOI-0585-2223:
The current consultation on expanding the ULEZ:
I would like to establish whether there is any quantitative analysis or evidence relating to the assertion in the Background document page 48 that “the deterrent effect of receiving a PCN over time has decreased”.
This is presented as a statement of fact, not an opinion, and it is not unreasonable to seek the evidential basis for this statement via a request for relevant documents, studies or models.
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-1227-2223
Thank you for your request received on 17 August 2022 asking for information about the proposed increase of the ULEZ penalty charge.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations and our information access policy.
We do not hold any additional analysis. The ‘Background to the Proposals’ document states: “…the deterrent effect of receiving a PCN over time has decreased. For the Congestion Charge, the proportion of Vehicle Registration Marks (VRMs) given multiple PCNs has increased from 25.1 per cent in 2018 to 28.3 per cent in 2021. For the ULEZ, the proportion has increased from 25 per cent to 32.3 per cent between 2019 (when the scheme was introduced) and 2021. The PCN level needs to increase for both schemes to maintain the deterrent effect and achieve scheme objectives.” We have inferred from the fact that the number of multiple penalty charge notices (PCNs) issued for non-payment of the Congestion Charge and ULEZ is increasing that the risk of incurring a £160 PCN is decreasing in its effectiveness as a deterrent to non-payment. Therefore we are proposing to increase the amount of the PCN in order to restore the deterrent effect and discourage people from not paying the ULEZ and Congestion Charge. 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
