TfL will still have power to fine Croydon motorists, despite council plan to block cameras

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

Croydon council has claimed it will not let Transport for London (TfL) install ULEZ cameras to charge and fine drivers.

But a map shows TfL will still have the power to fine motorists in some Croydon roads, even if the council rebels.

Many of the main roads in Croydon are run by TfL. The transport body will not need permission from the local authority to install cameras in these roads when the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expands into the borough this August.

Drivers of the most polluting cars will face a £12.50 daily charge for driving in the ULEZ in a bid to cut pollution.

In Croydon, the three roads owned by TfL are the A323 Croydon Road running between Wallington and Bromley, the A23 which runs from Streatham to Purley, and the A22 which runs south from Purley.

Croydon Mayor Jason Perry said the council would be “resisting” attempts by TfL to install cameras in the authority’s streets and on lampposts.

He said the council was also joining other outer London councils in exploring what legal action could be taken.

He said: “I have been clear from the start that Croydon council strongly opposes Sadiq Khan’s plan to expand the Ultra Low Emission Zone.

“Mr Khan’s plan will not only force hundreds of Croydon residents to pay £12.50 a day just to drive their car, but his own studies show it will have very little environmental impact.

“For many Croydonians, their car is the only reliable option to get around given the reduced public transport options compared with inner London.

“Punishing those who cannot afford to buy a more modern vehicle is deeply unfair and out of touch, particularly at a time when the cost of living is increasing.”

Pictured top: A map showing the TfL-owned roads in and around Croydon (Picture: TfL)