A major update is expected today on the future of Greater Manchester’s Clean Air Zone after Mayor Andy Burnham slammed plans to charge drivers earlier this month.
The Greater Manchester Air Quality Administration Committee will meet with the Government today, December 20, to discuss the future of the city’s Clean Air Zone.
According to new modelling, a non-charging scheme would deliver cleaner air faster than if motorists were to be charged inside the zone.
Greater Manchester said it was ready to submit a “compelling” plan for clean air through massive investment in public transport across the region.
If plans are to go ahead, the Clean Air Zone would be one of the largest emissions-reducing schemes in the world, even if motorists are not charged.
It would cover an area of 495 square miles and include 10 boroughs – Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan.
These 10 areas are legally directed by the Government to reduce the levels of nitrogen dioxide to within legal limits as soon as possible and by 2026 at the latest.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said cleaning up the air was a priority for Greater Manchester and supported the use of the Bee Network.
These were the first buses to be brought back under local control in September, with Burnham saying the British-built electric buses would provide new opportunities for residents.
He added: “By accelerating investment in the Bee Network to create a London-style integrated public transport network, and upgrading GM-licensed taxis, we can improve air quality faster than if we introduced a Clean Air Zone, and without causing hardship to our residents or businesses.
“Since the first bus services came under local control, we have listened to feedback to make improvements and deliver change and are already seeing the benefits the Bee Network brings, with more people getting on board with lower fares under a locally controlled service, with new, state-of-the-art electric buses.”
The Mayor also asked the Government to consider allowing authorities in the region to remove charging Clean Air Zone signs that are currently found on roads.
The Clean Air Zone in Greater Manchester was originally meant to launch on May 30, 2022
PA
Further charges would have seen vans and light goods vehicles hit with a cost of £10 per day, while owners of HGVs, buses and coaches would have needed to pay £60.
