Summary: We cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint that the Council issued two penalty charge notices for driving into a bus only area. Mr X has used his right of appeal to the London Tribunals.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains the Council issued two penalty charge notices because he drove through bus gate signs. Mr X says the signs and road layout are poor and, although he lost his appeal to the parking adjudicator, the Council should improve. Mr X says he paid £260 in fines and was caused time and trouble.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We cannot investigate a complaint if someone has appealed to a tribunal or a government minister or started court action about the matter. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6), as amended)
3. London Tribunals (previously known as the Parking and Traffic Appeals Service) considers parking and moving traffic offence appeals for London.

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

4. I have considered Mr X’s information and discussed the complaint with him by telephone.

Back to top

What I found

5. I cannot investigate this complaint because Mr X has used his legal remedy by appealing to the parking adjudicator at the London Tribunals (see paragraph 2 and 3).

Back to top

Final decision

6. The Ombudsman cannot investigate Mr X’s complaint that the Council issued two penalty charge notices for driving past bus gate signs. Mr X used his right of appeal to the London Tribunals.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman