The comments follow Boris Johnson’s confirmation yesterday (26 March) that the introduction of the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will launch in central London in September 2020 (see more details here).
FTA has called for cross-party commitment that the Zone will not be expanded, and that the launch date is not brought forward. However, earlier this year Labour’s London Assembly Environment spokesperson Murad Qureshi called for the scheme to be opened up to the whole of the Capital, saying that without an expanded emission zone, vast swathes of London would be left to face a ‘needlessly toxic future’.
The FTA added that whilst many national companies will have a greater capacity to respond by replacing vehicles or redistributing older ones elsewhere, this is likely to have a larger adverse impact on smaller businesses and those operating specialist vehicles.
Natalie Chapman – FTA’s head of policy London, said: “FTA want to see some help for those who will find it harder to comply as the second hand market for Euro VI vehicles will not have fully matured by then, and unlike previous phases of the London Low Emission Zone, there will be no retrofit option available – essentially this means purchasing a brand new truck or van.”
Chapman added: “FTA would also reiterate previous calls to incentivise companies currently operating Euro 6 commercial vehicles by offering them a discount to the Congestion Charge. This would mean that they could ensure that fleets move their newest and cleanest vehicles to the capital, giving those living and working in Central London some of the benefits of the ULEZ immediately.”
