Environment Policy
Low Emission Zone - Cleaner Air for Greater London
Having been born and raised in West Central London and living near the Edgware Road, I have always been concerned about the high levels of air pollution rates in my local area. Each year, since 2000, Edgware Road and Baker Street have featured on the list of most polluted London sites.
Air pollution has many negative effects on people's health. In London, which has the worst air pollution in the UK, an estimated 1000 premature deaths and a similar number of hospital emissions occurred as a result in 2005. The fact that 75% of Londoners support the introduction of the LEZ, shows that most Londoners recognise that something needs to be done to improve the air quality in our city.
As a concerned resident and Deputy Chair of the Assembly Environment Committee, I more than welcome the introduction of London's Low Emission Zone (LEZ). This scheme will see the most polluting vehicles being charged for driving in London.
From February onwards, diesel-engined lorries of over 1200 tonnes in weight that do not meet the required emissions standard will be charged to enter Greater London. From summer 2008, all lorries over 3,5 tonnes as well as buses and coaches will be included in the scheme. Large vans and minibuses will be covered by the LEZ from October 2010.
For further information about the LEZ scheme you can consult the information leaflet here.
25 Congestion charge for 'Chelsea tractors'
This month, the consultation on the proposed emissions related congestion charging closed which aims to discourage the use of the highest CO2 emitting cars from entering the zone. The main proposals in the variation order are that there will be a 25 charge for cars that emit 226 grams of CO2 or more per km. Cars that fall into this category are SUVs or so-called 'Chelsea tractors'.
The proposals are good news for owners of smaller cars with low CO2 emissions that meet the Euro 4 standard for air quality. TfL, on behalf of the mayor, has proposed a 100% discount on the Congestion charge for such cars.
I certainly welcome the proposal to increase congestion charge for gas guzzling 4x4s as I have always believed them to pose a serious threat. Not only to the environment but also to pedestrian and child safety. Driving a Chelsea tractor in a city environment is completely unnecessary and I am hoping that this move will make more people opt for a smaller and more eco-friendly car.
