New low-emission zones will be rolled out across all of London this summer. Here’s what we know so far.
The Government has announced plans to expand London’s Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ for short) in a move that will see all of Greater London covered in the pollution-cutting scheme from the 29th of August 2023.
Once the ULEZ is expanded, drivers of old or heavily polluting vehicles will have to pay a £12.50 charge to enter the low emission zone…
But don’t worry, the charge will be complemented by an increase of bus services in the suburbs to help people get around (let’s just hope the strikes are over by then).
Reaction to the Expansion
The move has drawn both praise and criticism from the public with critics saying the midst of a cost of living crisis is not the time to be imposing further charges on a cash-strapped public.
However, studies have shown that the original low emission zone cut pollution by up to 26%, a welcome change for all those that live within it. This increase in low-emission zoning will bring clean air to a further 5 million people.
Alongside the increase in bus services, there will be a £110 million scrappage scheme where eligible applicants can apply for grants to scrap or refit their vehicles so that they comply with the new ULEZ standards.
Who’s Affected?
If you’re reading this and dreading having to cough up nearly an extra £100 per week just to drive around London, there is some good news (other than the fact you’ll be breathing cleaner air, that is).
Chances are you probably won’t need to pay the charge. Because the £12.50 a day will not apply to most diesel cars registered post 2016 and most petrol cars registered post 2006, it’s expected the new charge will only affect about 15% of drivers.
Expanded London Emissions: Key Information
Date: The new ULEZ will be effective from the 29th of August 2023.
Cost: £12.50 a day.
Who? Most diesel cars registered before 2016 and most petrol cars registered before 2006.
Where: All of Greater London.
