Traffic halted as ULEZ expansion faces opposition

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【Summary】Protesters in London demonstrate against the expansion of the ultra-low emissions zone (ULEZ), causing traffic disruption. The ULEZ expansion will require drivers in outer London to pay a £12.50 daily fee if their vehicles don't meet emissions standards. Protesters express concerns about the cost of replacing their cars and argue that the tax is unjust, especially considering rising living expenses.

FutureCar Staff Aug 20, 2023 7:23 AM PT

Traffic halted as ULEZ expansion faces opposition

Protesters in an outer London borough caused a traffic standstill as they voiced their opposition to the controversial expansion of the ultra-low emissions zone (ULEZ). The demonstration took place at Orpington War Memorial in southeast London, where tractors, taxis, and a three-wheel car circled a roundabout while protesters used megaphones and whistles to make their voices heard.

The ULEZ expansion is set to be implemented in 10 days and will require drivers in outer London to pay a daily fee of £12.50 if their vehicles do not meet the required emissions standards. Among the protesters were Orpington locals Alex Hart, 65, and his wife Cheryl, 61, who expressed concerns about the financial burden of replacing their car, which could cost them up to £40,000.

Mr. Hart, who owns a diesel Volvo C30, said, "I have never protested about anything until this. I now have to get rid of my car because Mayor Khan is telling me to. It's a 2010 car that has been well-maintained, and we rely on it for our journeys to visit family. It feels unjust to be forced to either give up our car or pay a tax."

Another protester, 88-year-old Michael Hughes-Nurse, highlighted the impact of the ULEZ expansion on individuals with specific needs. He explained that his wife, who suffers from arthritis, relies on their 23-year-old Rover for transportation. Changing their car is not financially feasible for them, and the ULEZ expansion will affect many others, including commercial vehicle owners and those struggling with the rising cost of living.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently urged London Mayor Sadiq Khan to reconsider the expansion, while Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer suggested exploring alternative methods to address air pollution in cities. The mayor's spokesperson defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of tackling air pollution and the climate crisis. They cited the health risks associated with toxic air and the positive impact the ULEZ has already had in central London.

The spokesperson also mentioned that the majority of cars in outer London are already compliant with the emissions standards and will not be subject to the charge. For those with non-compliant vehicles, the mayor has expanded the scrappage scheme to provide support. The spokesperson further stated that any revenue generated by the ULEZ will be reinvested in public transport, including the expansion of bus routes in outer London.