Two-tier PCN system and Postal PCN?

Will the two-tier penalty charge system not just mean more revenue for Local Authorities? 

For many Local Authorities the new rules are likely to mean an effective reduction in parking income as the new Penalty Charge for less serious contravention is lowered.  This is all part of the philosophy of CPE of a fair traffic management policy. 

Differential penalties were introduced in London in July 2007 and there does not appear to have been any adverse effect from the new two-tier system.  It has only served to demonstrate that parking enforcement can be tailored to match the severity of the contravention. This should help reinforce that parking enforcement is not about revenue generation, but about managing our streets for the public's benefit.

Aren't Postal Penalty Charge Notices unfair?

The introduction of what is called the postal PCN is not a new concept. This power has been available in London since 2000.  It is used mainly with CCTV and camera enforcement and its use is now being extended. 

It can now also be used where vehicles are driven away before the PCN can be completed and issued to the motorist or attached to the vehicle. The CEO will be required to provide evidence that the PCN was 'in production' and would otherwise have to be cancelled on return to the parking office.

The new regulation will deal with those people who persistently contravene the parking regulations but simply drive away when they see a CEO or where a PCN is physically created but has not been served due to threatening behaviour towards the CEO.

A Postal PCN may also be appropriate in cases of moving traffic, where it is safer to issue a PCN by post using camera evidence rather than have the CEO take personal risks.  Where the physical act of stopping (e.g. on a Red Route) causes a traffic management problem, a Postal PCN may be issued.