A date has been confirmed for the launch of Leeds’ Clean Air Charging Zone (CAZ), which aims at tackling air pollution and protecting the health of residents in the city.

The city council hopes the CAZ, which will go live on 28 September, will encourage businesses to switch to cleaner vehicles that will not be charged.

Buses, coaches, heavy goods vehicles, taxis and private hire vehicles which fail to meet minimum emissions standards will be charged for driving within the zone’s boundary.

The zone comes after the government directed Leeds City Council to tackle air pollution in Leeds as soon as possible after finding that parts of the city would likely exceed legal air quality limits.

The council is supporting affected vehicle owners and operators to transition to lower emissions vehicles that won’t be charged.

More than £5.4m in financial support has so far been awarded to help local businesses switch to cleaner vehicles and an additional £3.1m has been provisionally approved.

‘Having been forced to delay the introduction of the zone last year due to delays to government systems, I am delighted that we are now able to confirm a go-live date for the Leeds Clean Air Charging Zone giving affected businesses clarity to help them prepare for the zone’s introduction,’ said Cllr James Lewis, executive member with responsibility for air quality.

‘We’re already seeing improvements to our city’s air quality thanks to the thousands of drivers that have already switched to less-polluting vehicles. As more businesses switch to cleaner vehicles to avoid charges we will no doubt continue to deliver even more improvements.

‘With six months before the zone takes effect, it is now time for businesses to prepare. I would strongly encourage those who may be affected to check their vehicle and find out more about the financial support and exemptions available by visiting our website.’