The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has made a bold pledge not to expand the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) scheme if he is re-elected after May’s election. In a letter to the Transport for London commissioner, Andy Lord, Khan stated that he has “categorically” ruled out the introduction of a pay-per-mile scheme and any tightening of Ulez emissions standards.
Khan emphasized his commitment to tackling air pollution in London, stating that while there is still more work to be done, he will not introduce a new pay-per-mile road user charging scheme or amend the standards for the Ulez scheme. He highlighted the success of the current Ulez scheme and assured drivers that the goalposts will not be moved.
Instead of expanding the Ulez scheme, Khan plans to focus on other measures to combat air pollution, such as improving walking and cycling routes, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, and expanding the network of electric vehicle charging stations.
However, the Conservative mayoral candidate, Susan Hall, criticized Khan’s pledge, accusing him of being dishonest with Londoners about his plans to tax drivers. Hall claimed that Khan had previously promised not to expand Ulez but went ahead and did so, spending £150m on technology for a pay-per-mile scheme.
On the other hand, the Liberal Democrat candidate, Rob Blackie, suggested that the Ulez could have been more successful if the mayor had not rushed the 2023 extension, giving people in outer London limited time to adapt. Blackie stressed the importance of bringing people along in efforts to combat climate change, especially for tradespeople who rely on vans for work.
The Green party has been approached for comment on the matter. Overall, Khan’s pledge not to expand the Ulez scheme has sparked debate among mayoral candidates and highlighted the ongoing efforts to address air pollution in London.