London Councils has confirmed plans to install automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras across the capital to strengthen enforcement of the London Lorry Control Scheme (LLCS).

The decision follows a successful pilot and is aimed at boosting compliance with restrictions placed on heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) using residential roads during overnight and weekend hours. The LLCS, in place since 1985, is designed to cut noise and traffic disturbance in neighbourhoods during unsociable hours by directing lorries onto designated routes.

The new cameras will operate alongside on-street Enforcement Officers. They will be positioned on key routes identified through traffic analysis, compliance data, and operational need. When operating, the technology will record number plates of HGVs travelling on restricted roads at prohibited times, with potential breaches then reviewed by scheme officers.

London Councils says the move will result in more consistent and efficient enforcement, while offering a clearer picture of HGV movements during restricted periods.

To help hauliers adjust, operators will receive warning notices for two weeks at each new camera location before penalty charges are issued. Any proceeds from penalties will continue to be reinvested into London’s transport network, including funding for traffic services and schemes such as the Freedom Pass.

Mayor Brenda Dacres OBE, London Councils’ Executive Member for Transport and Environment, said: “The introduction of ANPR cameras will help the London Lorry Control Scheme make use of modern technology, supporting the work of Enforcement Officers on our streets and increasing compliance with the scheme across London.

“This change will allow enforcement to be applied more consistently, efficiently, and fairly, as well as minimise overnight disruption to London’s communities, allowing Londoners to live in a cleaner, quieter city.”

The operational hours of the LLCS will not change, and hauliers are expected to continue using the Excluded Route Network unless they have a permit allowing access to restricted roads. Photo by Philafrenzy, Wikimedia commons.