The London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS) prohibits HGVs over 18 tonnes from using residential roads at certain times.
In this post we’ll look at some recent amendments London Councils made to the scheme, along with the penalties you may face for not abiding by the rules.
For more information on how we can help you and your fleet, get in touch with us on 020 8290 9099 or email us at commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
What is the London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS)?
The LLCS has been in place since 1985. Under the scheme, HGVs over 18 tonnes cannot drive on certain residential roads in London at night, and at weekends. As well as helping to cut down on harmful vehicle emissions, the scheme also aims to reduce noise pollution.
The scheme’s operational hours are as follows:
- Monday – Friday: 9.00 pm – 7.00 am (this includes 9.00pm Friday night to 7.00am Saturday morning)
- Saturday: 1.00pm – 7.00am Monday morning
Normal restrictions also apply during public and bank holidays.
Some refer to the scheme as the “lorry ban”, but this isn’t really the case. Haulage firms and other operators can still access restricted roads, but only with permission, and only during specific hours. Plus, as we mentioned above, the strict restrictions only apply to HGVs over 18 tonnes.
2026 Amendments to the LLCS
London Councils recently announced some amendments to the LLCS. The plan is to introduce automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to better enforce the restrictions.
ANPR cameras can automatically detect and record the number plates of any HGVs using the specified roads during restricted hours. These, combined with an on-the-ground team of officers, will help London Councils work towards more efficient and consistent enforcement.
You can learn more about the planned amendments to the LLCS.
LLCS Crackdown – And The Penalties For Non-Compliance
London Councils have suggested that these amendments to the LLCS are a response to “known issues with non-compliance.”
Though the LLCS was decriminalised in 2004, there are still penalties for non-compliance, for both the offending vehicle’s operator, and for its driver. The operator will face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £550, while the driver can receive a PCN of £130.
Both operators and drivers can get a 50% reduction in the fine if they pay within 14 days. And anyone who receives a PCN can challenge it, and appeal it.
How Fleets Can Comply With LLCS
- Find out if you’ll be affected. London Councils is sending warning notices to any hauliers based in locations where they plan to install ANPR notices. Apparently, every haulier will receive two weeks’ notice to help them prepare. And presumably, these notices will offer advice on steps London fleets can take to stay compliant.
- Plan your routes carefully. London Councils has an Excluded Route Network (ERN). HGVs can travel on any road on the ERN at any time. So when planning your routes, be sure to cross reference with the ERN. If you cannot use roads on the ERN for the entire journey, then you will have to get express permission to use a restricted road. You can view an interactive map of both the ERN and the restricted roads.
- Apply for permission. Head to the London Councils’ haulier poral to apply for access to restricted roads during controlled hours. You do not need to apply for permission if you can complete the full journey using just the ERN, or if your HGV weighs less than 18 tonnes.
- Understand the rules. Even if you get permission, you still do not have total freedom to use the restricted road. London Councils specify that you must complete your journey using “the shortest distance along the restricted roads.” Use the roads more than necessary, and you may still get a PCN.
Total Peace of Mind For You and Your Fleet
Steve Blackmore, Director at Anthony Jones says:
“It’s wrong to think of the LLCS as a ‘lorry ban’, as you may still be able to drive on a restricted road if it’s strictly necessary. But restrictions like this can cause headaches for fleet managers. And the introduction of ANPR cameras means it’s almost certain that you and your driver will get a fine if you don’t follow the rules.
“It’s important to stay compliant. And at Anthony Jones, our expert risk advice services can help you achieve compliance with all the relevant regulations in your industry. Beyond that, we can help you access the specialist commercial fleet insurance you need at a truly competitive price.”
For more information on how we can help you and your fleet, get in touch with us on 020 8290 9099 or email us at commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
