A single junction in one of London's wealthiest boroughs has become a multi-million-pound 'money-maker' for the local council, after drivers of heavy vehicles repeatedly ignored a clear weight restriction.
A Costly Crossing for Unwary Motorists
Kensington and Chelsea Council has raked in a staggering £2,564,230 in penalty charge notices from the north side entrance of Albert Bridge on Chelsea Embankment. The fines were issued between April 2024 and June 2025, with more than 36,000 penalties handed out in just 14 months.
The revenue surge followed the introduction of a three-tonne weight limit in January 2024, designed to protect the historic Grade II-listed structure. Despite signs warning of the restriction, thousands of heavier vehicles, including large vans, trucks, and some SUVs like Range Rovers, continue to use the bridge daily.
'Beeping Hour' and a Fragile 'Trembling Lady'
The local impact is significant. One resident, who works nearby, described busy mornings as 'beeping hour', as oversized vehicles get stuck at the narrow entrance, blocking traffic behind them. This often leads to drivers becoming stranded in the yellow box junction in front of the bridge, risking further fines from Transport for London (TfL).
Another long-term local, a pensioner who has lived near the bridge for over 30 years, labelled the location a clear 'money-maker' for the council. She acknowledged the necessity of the rules, stating: "People who ignore it are ignorant. It is a fragile structure, that’s why there is a weight restriction. It’s not just for the hell of it."
Her comments reference the bridge's apt nickname, 'The Trembling Lady', earned due to its long history of structural concerns. Originally opened in 1873 for horse-drawn traffic, it has faced weight limits since 1884. The current three-tonne limit is the latest in a series of measures to preserve the 710-foot crossing.
London's Top Fine Hotspot
Data obtained via a Freedom of Information request reveals that the Albert Bridge north entrance generated more revenue from fines than any other location in London during the 14-month period. It significantly outpaced the second and third most profitable spots:
- Barking and Dagenham Council: £1,990,325 from Station Parade.
- Harrow Council (Camrose Avenue): £1,599,341.
A spokesperson for Kensington and Chelsea Council defended the enforcement, saying: "We take our responsibility to protect Albert Bridge as vital river crossing and an iconic landmark very seriously... We strongly encourage drivers to check the weight of their vehicles are under three tonnes before they pass onto the bridge, to help us protect the structure and to avoid a fine."
The council approved the restriction specifically to prevent damage to the bridge, which also has a width limit of 6 feet 6 inches. While small vans like Citroen Berlingos are typically under the weight limit, larger Luton vans and modern trucks frequently exceed it.
