Changes to Londons Low Emission Zone

From 26 October 2020, Greater London’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) emissions standards will be tougher for heavier vehicles.

Vans over 3.5 tonnes will need to be Euro 6 compliant in order to drive in the LEZ. This is the same standard that currently applies in the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Congestion Charge area).

Fines will range from £100 to £300 daily, depending how polluting the vehicle is. In September 2016 Euro 6 became mandatory for all new larger vans. Vehicles manufactured before this date are unlikely to comply.

Tilers working in London now need to be aware of the changes, which are designed to set new limits for nitrogen oxides (NOx) in particular. They should check whether their diesel van is modern enough to drive within the LEZ without incurring a fine.

The Central London Ultra Low Emisssion Zone (ULEZ) has been in operation since April 2019 to help tackle London’s toxic air. Owners of vehicles that don’t meet the emissions standards, but who wish to drive within the Zone, have to pay the charge, which is in addition to the Congestion Charge.

Media reports suggest that the ULEZ so far is proving highly successful, with a 35% drop in the numbers of the most polluting vehicles and also a 35% drop in urban CO2 levels.

Full details on the changes coming through on the London Low Emission Zone can be found on the Transport for London website at: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/low-emission-zone...