Croydon Council has come out in opposition to the proposed expansion of ULEZ to outer London, arguing that it would have a disproportionate impact on low income households.

The council’s response to Transport for London’s recent consultation on proposals to expand the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to Croydon by Autumn 2023, outlines the economic pressures current plans would place on Croydon’s most vulnerable residents.

Vehicles that do not meet the emission standard will cost families £12.50 a day to drive within the widened ULEZ, meaning its expansion will disproportionately impact low income and less mobile Croydon residents.

The council also argued that the expanded ULEZ lacks the necessary public transport improvements to support a large scale move away from car use.

Jason Perry, executive mayor of Croydon, commented: ‘During a time when so many of our residents are feeling the squeeze from increasing cost of living, it is concerning that they are faced with the prospect of a £12.50 ULEZ charge for a trip to the shops. Croydon takes environmental matters seriously and we are firmly committed to improving London’s air quality, however, this should not come at a cost to families and business already struggling financially.

‘There are real opportunities to continue to improve our local transport infrastructure in the immediate term, focusing on our public transport and cycle routes, as well as supporting the uptake of greener vehicles.

‘I have urged the Mayor of London to reconsider current ULEZ expansion proposals and work with, rather than penalise, outer London boroughs like ourselves to improve sustainable transport and air quality for all.’

A spokesperson for the Mayor said: 'Air pollution is a matter of life and death. Around 4,000 Londoners die every year as a direct result of toxic air, and the majority of these deaths are in outer London. The Mayor has consulted on expanding the ULEZ London-wide to protect the health of Londoners and save lives.

'Well over 80% of vehicles in outer London and more than 90% in inner London already meet the ULEZ standards and would not have to pay the charge.'