The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has responded angrily to London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s announcement on 16 June that the capital’s Congestion Charge will increase from £11.50 to £15 on Monday, 22 June.

In addition, the daily charge will apply seven days a week - not just Monday to Friday as previously - and will be payable from 07.00hrs until 22.00hrs, not 18.00hrs as before.

RHA Chief Executive, Richard Burnett said, “With last week’s shocking news that the UK economy contracted by a record amount, Transport for London needs to take a more sustainable approach to goods moving around the capital – one which recognises that environmental and social wellbeing depends on economic wellbeing.”

“Simply increasing the charge without mitigating its impact on business fundamentally ignores that principle and will put even more pressure on the firms driving London’s economic recovery. In short, this is a cash grab on business.”

Last month the RHA called on the mayor to exempt goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes from the Congestion Charge saying it would simplify operations and save money for the sector’s customers.  This request seems to have been ignored.

Photo: Richard Burnett