Subcontractor for NHS Incurs Heavy Fines for LTN Parking
A subcontractor serving the NHS has been subject to weekly fines as high as £1,000 for parking in Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs).
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Ambulance drivers in London have faced hefty fines for parking their non-emergency vehicles in designated Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), despite there being exemptions in place for such essential services. This issue has been aggravated as more streets around schools are being transformed into restricted parking zones during specific times to reduce traffic and enhance safety.
Private ambulance services contracted by NHS trusts have been particularly affected, with some companies shouldering significant weekly fines. OnCue, an ambulance subcontractor with 270 registered vehicles serving various NHS trusts, reported paying up to £1,000 weekly in fines due to penalty charge notices from Transport for London and individual borough councils.
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OnCue, a specific subcontractor mentioned, has been heavily penalized financially due to these fines.
The enforcement of LTN regulations and subsequent fines has posed significant challenges, especially for patients who are vulnerable or have mobility issues. “Ambulances are sometimes forced to stop at the boundaries of these restricted zones and request patients to meet them there, which is impractical for those in wheelchairs or with severe mobility restrictions,” stated a spokesperson from the ambulance service.
With the diverse management of London’s low traffic streets by local councils and Transport for London, a complex patchwork of rules has emerged. A recent inquiry through the Freedom of Information Act revealed that over 2,300 parking fines were issued to private ambulances associated with Barts Health NHS Trust for traversing LTNs and bus lanes, with less than two percent of these fines being successfully appealed.
This has led some ambulance drivers to choose longer, alternative routes to completely avoid LTNs and bus lanes. Moreover, a statement from a non-emergency ambulance driver highlighted the personal financial impact of these fines, noting one instance where a fine was directly deducted from his monthly wage.
However, a Transport for London spokesperson has indicated that NHS Trusts could help mitigate such issues by submitting a list of subcontracted vehicles, potentially qualifying them for exemptions under current schemes.
Low Traffic Neighbourhoods are typically enforced using barriers, bollards, road signs, and planters to limit vehicle access, promoting a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists. Fines for breaching LTN rules are generally set at £130, but paying promptly can reduce the fine to £65.
The implementation of LTNs across London continues to be a topic of public and political debate, balancing the benefits of reduced traffic and enhanced safety against the practical implications for vehicle-dependent services and residents.
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