While the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) remains uncertain, the results of a recent survey have revealed the significant impact the plans could have on Northwood and Ruislip residents.
The survey, which ran from March 1 to April 16, received more than 11,500 responses. It has shown that more than 50 per cent of Hillingdon car owners have vehicles that are non-compliant with emission and safety standards set by Transport for London (TfL). This means they will have to pay a fee of £12.50 per day to enter the Great London Authority boundary from August 29.
The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has launched a new £110million scrappage scheme to help eligible Londoners scrap their vehicles to prepare for the expansion. The survey found, however, that 91 per cent of the 6,291 people who own non-compliant vehicles do not qualify for the scheme.
Councillor Douglas Mills, Hillingdon Council’s cabinet member for corporate services, said: “These results confirm our worst fears and show that the number of residents who would be impacted by the ULEZ expansion is much higher than claimed by the Mayor of London and TfL.
“Of particular concern is the feedback that more than 90 per cent of our residents with non-compliant vehicles don’t even qualify for the Mayor’s limited scrappage scheme.
“In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, and with increases to household spending, the results demonstrate how our residents who need their car to commute, do the school run or visit loved ones, and traders who rely on a vehicle for their business, will be adversely affected.
“The social and economic costs are going to leave many residents isolated, worse off and with a transport system that fails to meet the needs of our large physical borough.
“We will continue to challenge ULEZ, which is a key priority for us, and we hope that the courts rightfully find in our favour.”
The High Court granted permission for a judicial review into the expansion, launched by five London boroughs, including Hillingdon Council, last month. This is likely to be listed in the week commencing July 3, or shortly thereafter.
The Mayor of London has been contacted for comment.
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