The London Assembly today agreed a motion[[1]] urging the Mayor to offer other London Boroughs the opportunity to opt-in to a larger Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Jenny Jones AM, who proposed the motion, said:
“It is one of the biggest scandals of our age that 4,300 people a year in London are dying prematurely as a result of poor air quality. As serious air pollution is not confined to the boundaries of the congestion charge area, nor should the Ultra Low Emission Zone. Boroughs outside the zone should be given an opportunity to opt-in at the earliest possible opportunity.”
Richard Tracey AM, who seconded the motion, said:
“We all accept there is a serious pollution problem in London but we don’t want to end up imposing this ULEZ on London Boroughs. My constituency includes Putney High Street, which is known for high pollution and Transport for London’s (TfL) introduction of hybrid buses is welcome. The monitoring equipment will cost the boroughs and it is sensible that they contribute to some of that cost.“
Len Duvall AM, who successfully amended the motion, said:
“There needs to be a debate locally - but at a time when boroughs are reducing services, I don't believe they should be expected to pick up the bill. Let's be clear, urgent action needs to be taken to ensure we have better air quality for both inner and outer London.”
The full text of the motion agreed at today’s meeting reads as follows:
“This Assembly notes that the Mayor of London’s proposal for an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is currently envisaged within the boundaries of the central London Congestion Charge Zone. This Assembly also understands that other boroughs may wish to join the proposed zone where they have particular air quality concerns. The Assembly therefore recommends that other boroughs be offered the opportunity to opt-in to a larger, contiguous zone as part of the Mayor’s consultation on the 2020 scheme.
Notes to editors
1. The motion was passed unanimously at a meeting of the full Assembly today.
2. Watch the webcast.
3. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
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