Diverted into a zone by roadworks or a closure

If a signed diversion takes you into a zone you would not otherwise have entered, several authorities say you should not pay, and some switch off the cameras on the diversion route. If a PCN arrives anyway, it is usually worth challenging.

What each authority says

• Bristol: following a signed diversion for planned or unplanned works means no charge; cameras on the route are suspended. Appeal any PCN; claim a refund if you paid.
• Sheffield: the charging order lists diverted vehicles as a local exemption.
• Newcastle and Gateshead: unplanned diversions known to the enforcement team where you had no choice are waived; planned diversion routes have charges waived by the cameras.
• Glasgow and Dundee: the zone can be suspended in emergencies such as a diversion through the zone (Dundee: only where vehicles follow the prescribed route).

Evidence

• Photos of diversion signs, or a dashcam clip.
• A news report or council notice of the closure on that date.
• Your route showing you stayed on the diversion.

Which ground

Where the scheme exempts diverted vehicles, no charge was payable. Elsewhere outside London, ask for cancellation for compelling reasons. In Scotland, extenuating circumstances is a full legal ground.