Hi guys,
I have today received a PCN from the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels Charging authority of £180, £90 if paid within 14 days.
From what I can understand, this is a new charge that didn't apply previously, and unfortunately I got caught out on my only trip down Blackwall tunnel in a year or so. I also have ADHD so I do struggle with these retrospective charging regimes where one has to pay after the fact. I have been ticketed by Dartford crossing in the past, but I registered an online account so I never have to worry about that one. Somehow I stupidly thought that having registered online for Dartford would work here as well, but I guess they are different charging authorities so different accounts are required. Which in itself is a very inefficient process.
This is the first time this has happened, so I wonder if there is any recourse here by appealing for leniency for first time offence. I know this has worked with Dartford crossing in the past.
The penalty charge is disproportionately high. The crossing fee is £1.50, and I was only 38 minutes earlier than the free charge time.
The issue date from when the 14 days begins is 16/05/2025, however this just landed through my mailbox so effectively I only get 7 days to pay it.
Is there any possible representation here or should I just resign myself to a very expensive tunnel crossing and pay within the 7 days?
Thank you.





