THE number of penalty notices for offences such as failing to pay the congestion charge is beginning to fall, according to latest findings.

Research from National Car Rental has shown the number of charges for congestion offences, bus lane fines and speeding fell by 12% from the first quarter in 2004 to the first quarter of 2005.

Brian Jayes, vice president UK operations at National Car Rental, said: ‘We predicted last year that PCNs would increase, but I am delighted to be proved wrong. There has been a substantial 12% drop year on year.’

National believes the reduction in notices is due to awareness of how the congestion charge works and fleets becoming more stringent with their drivers.