London’s Low Emission Zone Catching On

The London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) began in February 2008 with phase one coming into effect, this was for standard Euro 3 for particulate matters, with lorries between 3.5 and 12 tonnes, buses and coaches having to comply.  Phase two is due to follow in October 2010 with larger vans and minibuses coming in under the same controls and from January 2012 Euro 4 for PM comes into effect.

With the scheme proving a success other local authorities are now considering following suit.  Norwich has already implemented a similar venture with buses and coaches however because of the success of London’s scheme they are considering extending it to trucks as well. 

Others areas looking into the possibility of introducing schemes are Sheffield, Shrewsbury, Cambridge, Leeds, Derby, Oxford, Bristol and Glasgow.

As the scheme potentially widens some people are voicing their concerns over the cost implications forced upon hauliers who have to buy costly retrofit devices to comply.  For more information visit www.lowemissionzones.eu where you can find which areas/cities are currently running such schemes and guides to having cleaner engines.