Ultra-low Emission Zone signs installed in London warning drivers of impending charges

(Posted on 29/11/18)

More than 300 Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) warning signs are being installed across central London in preparation for the introduction of charges in April 2019.

The signs, which are being installed at the same locations as existing Congestion Charge signs, warn drivers at all entry points to the zone, and on several key approach routes, to ensure their vehicle meets the tough new emission standards that come in to effect next year.

To discourage the use of the most polluting vehicles, drivers travelling within the zone and using non-compliant vehicles, will need to pay a daily ULEZ charge of £12.50, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

These include:

• motorbikes that do not meet Euro 3 standards (roughly the equivalent of not being more than 12 years old in 2019)
• petrol cars and vans that do not meet Euro 4 standards (roughly the equivalent of not being more than 13 years old in 2019)
• diesel cars and vans that do not meet Euro 6 standards (roughly the equivalent of not being more than four years old in 2019)
• Buses, coaches and lorries will need to meet or exceed the Euro VI standard or pay £100 a day

Nick Fairholme, director of project and programme delivery at TfL, said: 'We are committed to tackling the public health crisis that is London's toxic air. It affects all Londoners, causing 9000 premature deaths every year and reducing the quality of life for thousands more.

'We're working hard to prepare Londoners for the ULEZ and to encourage them to opt for vehicles that emit fewer pollutants or walk, cycle or use public transport. We know that many people are aware, with more than 1.3 million checks of vehicles' compliance on our website.

'These new signs will be a physical reminder that the ULEZ is coming, but we won't stop there. We've contacted registered Congestion Charge users and are currently contacting other vehicle owners who drive in central London.'

Improvements to public transport are being completed. The entire central London bus fleet will be upgraded to meet the ULEZ standard by April 2019, and all buses in London will meet this standard by 2020. Ultimately, all buses will be zero-emission by 2037.

Sonia Farrey, director of advocacy at Unicef UK, added: 'Children are one of the most at risk groups from air pollution, which can leave them with lasting health problems including stunted lung growth, asthma and potentially damage brain development.

'Given this risk, we welcome the introduction of the Ultra-Low Emission Zone that can protect children from this threat to their health and ensure children's right to live in a clean and safe environment.'

Check your vehicles are compliant here

Image source: Transport for London