C-Charge automated system will benefit smaller freight operators, says FTA

Thursday 15 October 2009

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has welcomed news that Mayor Boris Johnson has decided to introduce an automated payment system for the London Congestion Charge. The leading trade body is also pleased that the benefits available under the previous discount scheme will now be available to all freight operators as part of his new Transport Strategy.

Automated payments will enable smaller commercial vehicle operators to avoid unfair fines, and the associated administrative burden of dealing with them, which arise from innocent mistakes.

Gordon Telling, FTA’s Head of Policy for London, said:

“While it is disappointing that the congestion charge has gone up at all, we are pleased that the majority of companies that move freight through the capital and don’t have the option of public transport are still afforded a discount.

“We welcome the introduction of the automated payment system which brings to small companies the same savings in administration that were previously only available to larger fleets. This is particularly helpful when Congestion Charge payments slip through the net and cause significant costs to smaller firms that are under pressure from all sides.”

Notes for editors

The proposed changes will supercede the old discount scheme and will be available to all commercial vehicle operators regardless of fleet size. Currently, motorists are charged at £8.00 per day to enter the congestion charge zone, but those vehicles that qualify for the current Fleet Scheme Discount, which applies to companies with ten or more vehicles, pay just £7.00. The new scheme will increase the congestion charge by £2, with most motorists paying £10 and discounted vehicles paying £9.00.

FTA Press Office

01892 552255
press.office@fta.co.uk