In what might be seen as a possible upcoming U turn, Greater Manchester’s leaders have issued a statement this morning saying that they are listening carefully about concerns over Greater Manchester’s Clean Air zone introduction
In a staement issued this morning by the Mayor Andy Burnham and Councillor Andrew Western, the city-region’s Clean Air lead, they described the scheme which would see charges for polluting vehicles entering a 493 mile area of the region, as a major challenge for many individuals and businesses which is why we have always been clear with Ministers that it must be accompanied by a fair package of financial support.
“While the Government has provided £120m, we are concerned that they have so far failed to agree to our request for additional support for those who will find it hardest to make the change. We also warned them of our on-going concerns about the vehicle supply chain and the cooperation of National Highways.”
The scheme is due to launch in May of this year with the aim of reducing harmful air pollution on local roads, but has seen a backlash since the New Year with a petition aginst it raising over 20,000 signatures.
Charges vary from £7.50 to £60 daily for non compliant HGVs, buses, coaches, vans, mini-buses, taxes and certain categories of motorhomes. Charges are set to be brought in from May, staggered until June 2023.Private cars, motorbikes and mopeds won’t be affected but failure to pay the charge will result in a £120 fine plus the daily charge.
“Over the past few months, Greater Manchester has continued to monitor these issues alongside the on-going impact of the pandemic and increases in the cost of living. In addition, late last year we commissioned new work to understand the impact of the growing global supply chain issues in the automotive sector which could affect the availability of some vehicles and people’s ability to upgrade.
“Greater Manchester leaders will consider the outcome of this work next week before asking the Clean Air Joint Committee to consider the implications for the Clean Air Plan later in the month. We are committed to reducing air pollution in Greater Manchester but also to protecting the jobs and livelihoods of our residents. We are listening carefully to concerns being expressed about the current situation and will make a decision shortly on our next steps.”
