Congestion charge 'teething problems'

By Tom Edwards
BBC London's Transport Correspondent

Transport for London says there have been "teething problems" with the congestion charging system over the last few days.

IBM took over the contract from Capita at the weekend.

Motorists contacted BBC London on Wednesday complaining they couldn't get through on the number to pay and there have also been problems accessing the online payment accounts.

John Horwood, who works for a London-based courier company, wrote to BBC London: "I've had complaints from my drivers regarding paying for the congestion charge.

"Since 'paypoint' was deactivated no one can get through on their telephone number to pay the charge which means 50% of my fleet have to now pay the higher charge of £10 for yesterday, which will further increase to a fine of £60-£120 should they not get through today."

'No penalty'

Transport for London said the problems have now been fixed but the call centre is experiencing extremely high levels of calls.

A spokesperson for Transport for London said: 'We apologise to customers for having to wait longer to speak to one of our call centre operators. More staff are being brought in to handle the increased call volumes.

"Customers should be assured that no one will be penalised as a result of the intermittent problems we have had. There are alternative ways to pay the charge other than the call centre.

"Customers can pay online, via SMS, or at almost 7,000 shops and petrol stations where they see the epay sign.''