London Mayor Sadiq Khan has confirmed that there will be no changes to the city’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) scheme during his tenure. Vehicle restrictions will remain in place, and the £12.50 Ulez charge will not be increased. The commitment came in a letter to Transport Commissioner Andy Lord, in which Khan said he was focused on efforts to reduce air pollution and improve walking, cycling, and public transport. The Ulez was introduced in 2019 and extended to cover the entirety of Greater London in August 2023. It requires a £12.50 daily charge to enter the zone in a non-compliant vehicle.
Critics of the Ulez have responded negatively to Khan’s announcement. Conservative mayoral candidate Susan Hall commented that Khan’s promises were “worthless,” adding that the Mayor had gone back on similar pledges in the past. Liberal Democrat candidate Rob Blackie called on Khan to address lingering issues with the Ulez, notably the short notice afforded to drivers outside central London when the scheme was extended.
The Ulez expansion inspired protests around the city. However, the charge has been credited with reducing air pollution in affected zones. Khan has insisted that drivers will not face new charges during his term, adding that while work remained to be done on air quality, he would ensure that the “goalposts are not moved for drivers.”
Green Party representatives did not respond to requests for comment on Khan’s letter. The Ulez scheme has helped to establish London as a leader in urban sustainability initiatives, with the capital also developing a comprehensive electric vehicle charging network and pedestrianisation plans for central areas
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