Never received penalty notice

[John Henry]

Followed a Q7 into a box junction. I could see there was sufficient room for us both to clear the yellow grid. Q7 driver stopped approx 8ft short of the car in front of it. Despite my indicating as such, the driver refused to move forward, leaving my rear bumper and back tyres transgressing the last box junction yellow line for 20 secs. No obstruction caused to anyone else.
I know all of this as result of receiving a letter linking to video. I also recalled the incident. However, the letter states that I ignored the ‘initial letter’ which it claims was sent some two months earlier. That letter offered a discount on the penalty charge of £80.
The letter I’ve received demands £160 plus an £80 charge certificate.
I’ve contacted the local authority concerned and explained that I,
genuinely didn’t receive any communication prior. They confirm they never posted via a tracked or signed for service.
Following correspondence they state- ‘in the interest of reasonableness’ they will suspend the charge certificate if I pay the full ticket amount of £160.
This seems entirely unfair as I didn’t receive any previous correspondence.
Is it worth my contesting this point via hearing or is the system such that I will be doomed whatever?

[Nick Forest]

Pay it, and move on with your life.

Motorists are here to be milked until we’re bled dry…that’s the way these days unfortunately.

I’d say you’d had a reasonable outcome all things considered.

[Glassman]

They will have proof of sending.

[croyde]

Post is so st these days. I often receive stuff 2 weeks after they were sent.

[Busa mav]

Lambeth Council by any chance ?

[LosingGrip]

Post on ftla.uk and following their instructions for how to put your post (redacted copy of letters etc). They'll help you.

Very knowledgeable members.