Overview

This bill aims to improve air quality in UK urban centers by targeting diesel vehicle emissions. It introduces stricter emissions testing, empowers local authorities to create low-emission zones, and promotes sustainable transportation options like electric trams and LPG-powered vehicles.

Description

The Air Quality (Diesel Emissions in Urban Centres) Bill mandates several key actions:

• Revised Emissions Testing: Within 20 months, new vehicle emissions tests must reflect real-world driving conditions, adhering to Euro 6 standards and detecting emissions-cheating devices. This will be incorporated into the MOT.
• Local Authority Powers: Local authorities must, within 12 months, create and implement local air quality plans meeting EU standards. This includes establishing low-emission zones restricting older diesel vehicles, expanding pedestrian areas and cycle lanes, and developing sustainable transport plans promoting electric trams and LPG vehicles.
• Environment Agency Actions: The Environment Agency will monitor air pollution in high-risk areas, issue warnings for pollution breaches, and implement traffic calming measures (including road closures) when necessary.
• Fiscal Strategy Review: An independent review will assess how government fiscal policy can better support sustainable transport to improve air quality. The report will be submitted within 12 months.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will arise from implementing new testing standards, supporting local authority initiatives (including potential compensation for businesses affected by low-emission zones), and funding the independent review of fiscal strategy. Further costs may arise from the establishment of a national network of LPG supply and electric vehicle charging points, subject to the feasibility report.

Groups Affected

• Vehicle Owners: Owners of older diesel vehicles may face restrictions on driving in urban areas or increased MOT testing costs.
• Local Authorities: Increased responsibilities for air quality monitoring, planning, and enforcement.
• Businesses: Businesses operating diesel vehicles in urban areas could face restrictions and potentially higher operational costs.
• Environment Agency: Increased monitoring and enforcement responsibilities.
• Public Transport Operators: Incentives to adopt electric or LPG vehicles.
• Residents of Urban Centres: Expected to benefit from improved air quality and potentially increased access to public transport.

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