Unidentified weight evidence failed to prove TfL's case (2026)

Case 2250243570 / 2025-08-05 / Adjudicator Chez Cotton

ROTHERHITHE TUNNEL APPROACH / BRANCH ROAD

“However, the burden is on the EA to show a contravention occurred”

Chez Cotton

TfL relied on an N1 classification and a stated revenue weight of 2501 kg to pursue four tunnel penalties. The appellant supplied a photograph showing a measured weight of 1860 kg with drivers and tools aboard. Chez Cotton accepted that the crossings occurred and that the signs and traffic order were adequate.

Neither side's weight evidence satisfied the adjudicator. The weighing photograph was undated and did not identify the vehicle. TfL's document lacked a DVLA heading or other indication of its origin. Its case summary could not itself establish the disputed weight. The authority therefore failed to discharge its burden of proving the contraventions.

This was a reasoned decision allowing the appeal and directing cancellation of the four PCNs, not an uncontested withdrawal. Cotton expressly warned that the result did not confirm the vehicle weighed below the restriction. The decisive issue was the quality of the evidence in this particular case.

Source and case reference

Use case reference 2250243570 in the London Tribunals register to find the official decision. This commentary distinguishes the adjudicator's finding from a possible argument in a different case; previous tribunal decisions do not bind another adjudicator.