One of the two zones which would feature the restrictions
Hackney and Islington councils are consulting on a scheme which could see all but the cleanest vehicles banned from two zones in Shoreditch.
The scheme would mean that petrol, diesel and older hybrid vehicles would not be allowed to enter nine streets during the peak commuter periods of 7.00-10.00am and 4.00-7.00pm, Monday to Friday.
Ultra low emission vehicles like electric cars, e-bikes, the newest hybrids and hydrogen vehicles, as well as pedestrians and cyclists, will be permitted, and residents and businesses on the streets affected would also still be able to use their vehicles.
The scheme is part funded through the Office For Low Emission Vehicles’ ‘Neighbourhoods of the Future’ scheme and forms part of the Mayor of London-funded Low Emission Neighbourhood.
Cllr Feryal Demirci, Hackney Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods, transport and parks, said: “The streets around Shoreditch suffer from some of the worst air quality in London.
“Ultra low emission streets will have reduced levels of air and noise pollution, make it easier and safer to walk and cycle and improve the character of the area for all residents and businesses.
“To start with we’re proposing to ban petrol and diesel vehicles in the morning and evening rush hours to reduce people’s exposure to dangerous fumes and make the streets safer when people are walking and cycling to and from work and school.
“Our ultimate goal is to reclaim the streets from polluting motor vehicles – this groundbreaking scheme is the first step towards doing that.”
Residents, businesses and people who travel through the area are invited to have their say on the plans until 14 February. Click here to find out more.
24 January 2018