17 March 2010

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The Low Emission Zone – cleaner air for Greater London

On the 4th February 2008 a Low Emission Zone in London will be introduced. It is the first scheme of its kind in the UK. London’s air pollution is the worst of any city in the UK and amongst the worst in London and Ken Livingstone, the Mayor of London, is planning to deter the most polluting diesel-engined lorries, buses, coaches, minibuses and large vans from the city.

What is the Greater London Low Emission Zone?

The Low Emission Zone (LEZ) will be a specified area within London where diesel-engined vehicles will be required to meet specific emissions standards. Those vehicles that do not meet the standards will need to pay a daily charge. The LEZ will not apply to cars, motorcycles or small vans (under 1.205 tonnes unladen weight).

Which vehicles will the LEZ apply to?

The LEZ will mainly affect older, diesel engined lorries, buses, coaches, large vans (exceeding 1.205 tonnes unladen weight) and minibuses (over 8 seats and below 5 tonnes).

Vehicle types and definitions	Date affected
Heavier lorries. Heavy diesel-engined vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle weight.	February 2008 – Euro III* January 2012 – Euro IV**
Lighter lorries. Heavy diesel engined vehicles between 3.5 and 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.	July 2008 Euro III
Buses and coaches. Diesel-engined passenger vehicles with more than eight seats, plus the driver’s seat, exceeding 5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.	January 2012 Euro IV
Large Vans. Diesel-engined vehicles between 1.205 tonnes unladen and 3.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight and motor caravans and ambulances between 2.5 tonnes and 3.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.	October 2010 Euro III
Minibuses. Diesel-engined passenger vehicles with more than eight seats, plus the driver’s seat, below 5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight.	October 2010 Euro III

*Euro III – All vehicles registered as new on or after the 1st October 2001 are assumed to be Euro III and will meet the LEZ emissions standards. Vehicles not meeting the emissions standards can be modified to do so.

**Euro IV – All vehicles registered as new on or after the 1st October 2006 are assumed to be Euro IV and will meet the LEZ emissions standards.

Where will the LEZ operate?

The Low Emission Zone covers most of Greater London, following the Greater London Authority boundary. The M25 motorway is not included in the LEZ. Visit cclondon.com for further details.