IGA responds to TfL Congestion Charge consultation

Association warns that proposed changes could penalise independent garages and undermine the EV transition

IGA responds to TfL Congestion Charge consultation

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has voiced its concerns regarding Transport for London’s (TfL) consultation on the Congestion Charge. While supporting efforts to improve air quality, the IGA believes the proposed changes could negatively impact independent garages and motorists.

TfL’s proposals include increasing the daily Congestion Charge from £15 to £18 and replacing the full electric vehicle (EV) exemption with a new “Cleaner Vehicle Discount” that would offer only a partial reduction.

The IGA warns that these changes could increase costs for motorists and squeeze the margins of independent garages within the Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ). Multi-day repairs could incur additional daily fees, while charging EVs, even with a discount, could penalise garages that have invested in EV tooling and training. The association argues this risks undermining the EV transition and could lead to deferred vehicle maintenance, affecting road safety.

According to the IGA, reducing benefits for EV drivers contradicts the government’s objective of accelerating EV adoption. It may also erode consumer confidence and disadvantage garages that have invested heavily in supporting the transition.

Jonathan Douglass, Director of the IGA, is calling for a “clear, auditable exemption for essential vehicle servicing, MOTs, and repairs” at independent garages within the CCZ. He stated that independent garages are vital to keeping London moving safely and should not be penalised for their role in the EV transition.

The IGA also opposes a reduction in the consultation period for major changes and automatic increases to the charge without public consultation.

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