The expansion of Sadiq Khan’s controversial ultra low emissions zone (ULEZ) has come into force despite facing a number of political hurdles.
The zone – which charges motorists £12.50 a day if their car does not comply with emissions standards – now covers every London borough and not just the city centre, as was the case previously.
The London mayor has repeatedly said extending the zone during the cost of living crisis has been a “difficult but necessary” decision needed in order to improve the quality of the capital’s air.
Mr Khan said expanding the zone will bring cleaner air to five million more people and is expected to reduce carbon emissions in outer London by a further 27,000 tonnes.
Speaking ahead of the new zone coming into force, Mr Khan said it was a “landmark day for our city which will lead to a greener, healthier London for everyone”.
“The decision to expand the ULEZ London-wide was a difficult one, but necessary to save lives, protect children’s lungs and help prevent asthma, dementia and other health issues,” he added.
He said evidence had proved that clean air zones were a “game-changer” in cutting air pollution in cities.
“It’s thanks to the ULEZ that we are now set to get London’s air to within legal limits in the next couple of years, 184 years earlier than previously projected,” he said.
“I’m determined to continue being a doer, not a delayer when it comes to reducing air pollution and taking bold climate action.
“The easiest thing for me to do would have been to kick the can down the road, but we simply don’t have time to waste. I am not prepared to stand idly by when we have the ability to save lives and help tackle the climate crisis.”
The expansion comes despite the London mayor facing stiff opposition to the plans from both the Conservatives and within the Labour Party – some of whom blamed the policy…
