A clean air zone (CAZ) is defined as an area where targeted action is being taken to improve air quality. It can be confined to a single road or part of a city and can include an area where vehicles are charged or fined for entering.
Most diesel drivers will have to pay £12.50 to drive into the centre of London from this April, and Birmingham, Derby and Newcastle are planning their own schemes to target older, more polluting cars. Number plate recognition cameras will ensure that fees are paid, with the threat of £120 fines if drivers fail to do so.
Diesel owners will be worst-affected, as most diesel cars sold before September 2015 don’t meet the latest emissions standard, known as Euro 6, making them subject to the charges. These account for around 9.5 million of the 12.9 million diesel cars on British roads.
The majority of diesel vans sold before September 2016 will need to pay too. Petrol models built since 2006 will be unaffected, as these are cleaner than older diesels, along with all electric cars and most hybrids.
Need further advice or have a question to ask? Mark Gallagher, the Grosvenor Group’s green fleet specialist, can be contacted on 01536 536 536 or via email [email protected]