Hillingdon’s 100% Record

“Better no law than laws not enforced.” (Italian Proverb)

Hillingdon Council has a problem with moving traffic enforcement. The PATAS statistics for July – September 2007 shows that, of the nine cases scheduled to be heard during that period, Hillingdon withdrew from every single one. Yes, that’s right; they failed to contest all the appeals to PATAS.

If my recent experience is anything to go by, then they are continuing to act in the same vein. I have helped a number of people with Hillingdon PCNs. One was cancelled after making representation. The remainder were taken to appeal and Hillingdon withdrew a few days before the hearing.

‘Tis the Season of Appeals

Well, the first anniversary of this website went unmarked on November 12^th. I was so busy preparing for the next few weeks that I didn’t have time for retrospection. That will have to wait for the Christmas break now.

The postal strike played havoc with applications for appeal and at one stage PATAS were receiving mail posted one month previously. Many people were served Charge Certificates by over eager councils because appeal applications were not received on time.

From my point of view it means that I have delayed appeals all stacked up between now and Christmas.

Significant Adjudication

Finally, after many unsuccessful attempts we have managed to get an Adjudicator to rule on the wording of an Islington moving traffic PCN. The appeal was allowed. All Islington moving traffic PCNs issued since early December 2006 are unlawful.

The Adjudicator’s reasons were simple. If the legislation says something must be stated on the PCN then it is a mandatory requirement. Ignore it or modify it at your peril.

This was no snap decision either. The Adjudicator reserved his decision so that he could go away and think about it and, presumably, consult his colleagues.

The implication is that Islington, Hillingdon and Waltham Forest PCNs are unlawful and can be challenged on the basis of their wording.

Harassed of Hillingdon

It has come to my attention the Hillingdon Council has recently joined the Association of Avaricious Authorities. They are carrying out yellow box enforcement at the junction of Long Lane and Freezland Way. I also know that they are using CCTV cameras to enforce parking in the Borough.

Fortunately for everyone the Penalty Charge Notices that are currently being issued are invalid. The wording does not conform to the relevant legislation so do not be afraid to appeal against them.