Fines generated from motorists entering bus lanes in London have increased by 400%, with Transport for London (TfL) collecting £6.6 million in the 2025-26 fiscal year. The total number of drivers fined for infractions rose to 54,761 during the same period.
This represents a substantial increase from the previous year, when TfL garnered £4.3 million from 29,423 drivers. Three years prior, the collected fines amounted to £1.2 million from 8,900 drivers. The current figures mean that approximately £87,177 in fines is being collected per mile of bus lane in the capital, which has about 76 miles of designated bus lanes.
Drivers issued Penalty Charge Notices for entering bus lanes face a £160 fine, which is reduced to £80 if paid within a specified timeframe. Motorists have voiced complaints regarding the clarity of road signage, confusing layouts, and faded road markings, suggesting that some bus lanes may be designed to inadvertently catch drivers out.
These increased fines come amidst a series of charges implemented under Mayor Sadiq Khan's administration. These include the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge, a hike in the daily Congestion Zone fee to up to £21, and new tolls for river crossings, including the Silvertown Tunnel and the historically free Blackwall Tunnel.
Critics have linked these measures to what they describe as a Labour-led "war on motorists." Greg Smith, Tory shadow transport minister, stated that London has become a difficult city to navigate due to what he called "constant pick-pocketing of drivers." He emphasized the importance of allowing people freedom of movement without financial hindrances.
Luke Bosdet of the AA commented on the significant revenue generated from fines, suggesting that London's road authorities have become reliant on income from Penalty Charge Notices. This situation is occurring alongside broader policy discussions, such as potential increases in parking ticket caps outside London and the consideration of a Workplace Parking Levy, which could charge businesses for employee parking spaces.
Some bus lanes are enforced by TfL's CCTV cameras, while others are monitored by the capital's 32 borough town halls. TfL was contacted for comment regarding the figures.