11 Sep Sadiq Khan’s Bold Move: ULEZ and the Clash of Opinions in London’s Political Arena

AS the UK’s battle towards attaining Net Zero rages, recently,  the focus been on the issue of air pollution, becoming a contentious topic in the city’s political arena. One particular move that has generated heated debate and has divided opinions, is the expansion of the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) across London. 

The ULEZ in London is a designated area where drivers of high-polluting vehicles must pay a charge to drive. Its main purpose is to improve air quality, reduce harmful emissions, and address the adverse effects of pollution on public health. The scheme primarily targets nitrogen dioxide (NOx) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which have been linked to thousands of premature deaths and negative impacts on children’s lung development. While petrol and diesel vehicles also contribute to CO2 emissions and climate change, the ULEZ focuses on curbing these two critical air pollutants to create healthier living conditions and alleviate the strain on the NHS.

This ambitious initiative aims to curb pollution and improve the city’s air quality, but it has sparked a clash of opinions among citizens, businesses, and politicians. This article delves into the key reasons for this heavy criticism. 

ULEZ Overview

In the plan, vehicles that do not meet the specified emissions standards for nitrogen oxide and particulate matter are required to pay a daily charge of £12.50 ($16) to drive within the ULEZ area. The system utilizes cameras around London that scan registration plates to determine whether the charge is applicable. Most gasoline-powered cars manufactured after 2006 and diesel cars made after September 2016 meet the standards and are compliant. 

The idea of the ULEZ was originally proposed by former Conservative Mayor Boris Johnson in 2013 but was put into action by Khan in 2019, expanding on an earlier low-emission zone introduced in 2008 for larger vehicles. Under Mayor Khan’s leadership, it was further extended to cover the area within the North and South Circular roads in 2021. Initially, it covered the same central area as the Congestion Zone before extending to its current boundaries, spanning about a quarter of London’s urban area, from Tottenham in the north to Brixton in the south The contentious issue arose with the plan to expand the ULEZ even further, reaching areas in Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, and Surrey. The expansion has faced criticism, particularly due to concerns about the cost of living crisis. Labour candidate Danny Beales advocated for halting the expansion during the campaign.

Why is the Scheme Controversial?

Political Reason

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has been a topic of contention in London’s political landscape, with both supporters and critics expressing strong views. The debate over the ULEZ expansion intensified in the outer London areas, particularly in places like Uxbridge and South Ruislip. After losing the Uxbridge and South Ruislip constituency, Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, expressed his belief that the ULEZ had cost his party the victory, calling Mayor Sadiq Khan to reconsider his plan to expand the ULEZ to outer London. Other party members hold a similar position, berating Khan for not listening to voters. 

Moreover, Steve Tuckwell campaigned against the ULEZ and ultimately won the outer London constituency with a slim majority of 495 votes, even though Labour managed to overturn a larger Conservative majority in another by-election held in North Yorkshire on the same day. Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the difficulty of winning Uxbridge and South Ruislip, stating that the ULEZ played a significant role in their defeat, and urged everyone, including the mayor, to reflect on this outcome.

Impact on Transportation and Businesses

The ULEZ policy significantly influences transportation and businesses within its designated zone. Its effectiveness in reducing air pollution and adapting to changing trends remains uncertain, requiring ongoing collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and the public. Sadiq Khan and other key proponents hold the responsibility to address concerns and evolve the initiative.

For instance, regarding the London ULEZ expansion, a £160 million allocation scrappage scheme was made, initially available to low-income individuals, some small businesses, and London-based charities, to be extended to all Londoners from August 21, 2023. Eligible drivers can receive up to £2,000 for scrapping a car, with varying amounts for vans and motorbikes. The expansion, however, has generated division, with clean air campaigners supporting it, but some residents, businesses, and politicians expressing serious concerns. Issues include the financial impact during a cost-of-living squeeze and the nine-month notice period. Some affected individuals believe the scrappage scheme won’t adequately help them. The cost of second-hand ULEZ-compliant cars has also risen. This has also led to litigations, including legal action by five Conservative-run councils, which was eventually dismissed by the High Court, leading to public protests. The mayor defends the plan, emphasizing its importance in preventing health conditions linked to air pollution and excess deaths. Preparations, such as camera installations, continue.

Evidence of success

The ULEZ has already demonstrated its level of success, as reflected in a new report showing that approximately nine in ten cars seen driving in outer London meet the Ultra Low Emission Zone standards. Also, car compliance with ULEZ standards in outer London was estimated at 85 per cent in November 2021, up from around 75% in earlier analyses from June 2020. Furthermore, roadside nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution has been reduced by 36% in the ULEZ zone, with an estimated 29% of this reduction attributable solely to the ULEZ. It is further estimated that the expansion into outer London is projected to save nearly 27,000 tonnes of CO2 in its first year, more than double the achievement of the central London ULEZ in its initial year. 

Conclusion

While ULEZ has achieved some level of success, it remains a highly debated measure, even though it is clear that its potential benefits for air quality in London are being weighed against the concerns about its impact on residents and the political landscape. As with any bold policy initiative, the true success of the ULEZ will depend on its long-term impact and adaptability, and as such, striking a balance between environmental objectives and economic considerations will be crucial in navigating the clash of opinions and creating a healthier, thriving London for its citizens. The success of the ULEZ will depend on ongoing collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and the public. It will require a commitment to finding balanced solutions that protect both public health and the economy.