Congestion Charge cuts traffic on Day 1

At the start time of 7am the traffic flow did not change but it was light enough to be moving fast. Reports from SE1 entry points and the main roads indicate a free traffic flow with no jams. Even Blackfriars Road had long gaps between vehicles in the north bound lane.

At dawn in Kennington, Elephant & Castle and Tower Bridge drivers were met by Conservative Party demonstrators holding placards and giving out Ken-gestion Tax leaflets at traffic lights. Police were in evidence to ensure that demonstrators did not block the roads. The Conservatives at the Elephant were from Bromley and had risen at 5.30am in order to stage their protest.

The Conservative leaflets quoted a resident in the NEW Kent Road describing the zone boundary as being like "the Berlin Wall on your doorstep" and Guy's and St Thomas' Chief Executive suggesting that Charge it will cost the hosptal up to £1m a year.

Also on duty before first light were Transport for London staff counting bus passengers and vehicles entering the zone.

Meanwhile the Motors repairs garage has posted a notice warning customers that due to the Congestion Charge the business may be closed in the day whilst staff collect small parts which suppliers will no longer deliver.

Vauxhall MP Kate Hoey, who has opposed the Congestion Charge boundary running through Kennington, expressed surprise at Monday morning's very clear roads.

Elephant and Castle, 7am

Elephant and Castle, 7am

Bromley Conservatives demonstrating in St George's Road

Bromley Conservatives demonstrating in St George's Road

Bromley Conservatives demonstrating in St George's Road

TfL counters in St George's Road

Toyota car promotion

Blackfriars Road at 4pm