Councils which issues most PCNs revealed as plans to hike fines announced

Following the announcement that parking penalties are set to increase by £30, new data has revealed Westminster as the hotspot for parking fines.

Heftier Penalty Charge Notices (PNC) were signed off by London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan last week following a request by London Councils, the body that represents the capital’s local authorities.

A PCN is a fine for breaking parking or traffic rules. PCNs can be issued for parking on double yellow lines, driving in bus lanes, or not paying the congestion zone charge on time. 

In light of the increase, car leasing experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts (NVC) analysed data from London Councils to discover which London boroughs received the most PCNs between 2023 and 24.

According to the data, Westminster leads the way with the council dishing out 469,204 PCN’s last year, 30,000 more than Newham in second place with 439,131.

Westminster also had the highest number of parking PCNs, making up 87 per cent of all parking fines issued in London last year.

Keith Hawes, Director of NVC, said: “Due to road safety and reducing congestion, following traffic and parking rules is paramount. 

“Drivers should research nearby parking when travelling somewhere new, make themselves aware of temporary traffic measures and ensure they pay on ULEZ or congestion charges promptly to avoid the chance of receiving a PCN.”

According to the proposals, higher-level charges in Band A areas would increase from £130 to £160, and from £110 to £140 in Band B areas.

The 50 per cent discount in place already would remain for those who pay their PCNs within 14 days, London Councils said.

The proposed increases will now go to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, who will have a month to raise any objections. 

Pictured top: A ticket inspector issues a parking fine (Picture: NVC)