Almost a third of Central London pubs have lost business because less people are driving into the centre, according to a survey conducted by thePublican.com.
The snapshot telephone survey showed that the controversial Congestion Charge, which was introduced in the capital on February 17, has resulted in a drop in business for many pubs.
Licensees claim people are staying out of the centre altogether or using public transport to get to and from work, leaving them less time to relax in the pub.
Trade at the Roebuck pub in London's Kennington area has been hit badly. The pub is just outside the charge zone, but one member of staff, who asked not to be named, said business had been very slow.
"We've lost about 50 per cent of our trade," she said. "People are getting the train to work and are leaving earlier and finishing work earlier so that they can avoid the rush hour trains."
This said, almost half of the pubs surveyed reported that business had not suffered at all or that it was too early to tell. Some licensees have witnessed a trade increase.
Dave Stokes of the Coopers Arms in Chelsea said business had been better than ever since the charge was introduced because people were staying out of the central zone.
Meanwhile, reports last week suggested that the zone could be widened by the end of the year. The extension would take in the boroughs of Westminster, Kensington, Chelsea and possibly even Tower Hamlets and would no doubt affect businesses, including pubs, in these areas.
If the scheme proves to be a success other major cities are likely to follow suit.