4th February 2008
London's Low Emissions Zone in force
The operators of large and polluting lorries face charges to drive in Greater London from today, as the new Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) comes into force.
Under the scheme, lorries above 12 tonnes that enter the controlled area must be registered as meeting stringent EU emissions limits, or their operators must pay £200. Those who refuse to do so face a £1,000 penalty fee.
Two weeks ago, Transport for London (TfL) responded to criticism that the zone had not been sufficiently publicised, announcing a 28-day grace period for hauliers. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) said production delays had meant that its members could not fit exhaust treatment systems in time to meet the zone's 4 February introduction.
RHA chief executive Roger King said that hauliers had faced "a financial nightmare of non-compliance" under the original deadline.
"However," he added, "there is no guarantee that 28 days will be long enough to clear the supply backlog and install the new equipment. We will be monitoring the situation carefully and will approach TfL for a further extension if necessary".
The zone operates 24 hours, seven days a week, and will apply to lorries weighing more than 3.5 tonnes and coaches from 7 July. Owners of large business vans and minibuses have until 4 October 2010 to ensure that their vehicles comply.
Under the scheme, lorries above 12 tonnes that enter the controlled area must be registered as meeting stringent EU emissions limits, or their operators must pay £200. Those who refuse to do so face a £1,000 penalty fee.
Two weeks ago, Transport for London (TfL) responded to criticism that the zone had not been sufficiently publicised, announcing a 28-day grace period for hauliers. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) said production delays had meant that its members could not fit exhaust treatment systems in time to meet the zone's 4 February introduction.
RHA chief executive Roger King said that hauliers had faced "a financial nightmare of non-compliance" under the original deadline.
"However," he added, "there is no guarantee that 28 days will be long enough to clear the supply backlog and install the new equipment. We will be monitoring the situation carefully and will approach TfL for a further extension if necessary".
The zone operates 24 hours, seven days a week, and will apply to lorries weighing more than 3.5 tonnes and coaches from 7 July. Owners of large business vans and minibuses have until 4 October 2010 to ensure that their vehicles comply.
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