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 pedestrian areas, and promotes the use of cleaner transport options like electric trams and LPG-powered vehicles.

Description

The Air Quality (Diesel Emissions in Urban Centres) Bill mandates several key changes. Firstly, it requires updated vehicle emissions testing to reflect real-world driving conditions, incorporating Euro 6 standards and detection of emissions-cheating devices. Secondly, it compels local authorities to develop and implement local air quality plans, establishing low-emission zones for diesel vehicles failing Euro 5 standards, expanding pedestrian areas and cycle lanes, and creating sustainable transport plans promoting electric trams and LPG-powered vehicles.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Environment Agency to monitor air pollution in high-risk areas, issue warnings when pollution levels exceed limits, and implement traffic calming measures (including road closures) to reduce pollution.

Finally, the bill calls for an independent review of the government's fiscal strategy's impact on air quality, suggesting adjustments to better promote sustainable transport.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, it will likely require funding for: the development and implementation of new vehicle emission testing standards; support for local authorities in creating low emission zones and sustainable transport plans; funding for the Environment Agency's increased monitoring and enforcement activities; and the cost of the independent review into government fiscal strategy.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Increased responsibilities for air quality monitoring, planning, and enforcement, potentially requiring significant resources.
• Diesel Vehicle Owners: Potential restrictions on driving diesel vehicles in urban areas, particularly older models not meeting Euro 5 standards. May face increased costs for newer vehicles.
• Environment Agency: Increased workload monitoring pollution levels and implementing mitigation measures.
• Public Transport Providers: Incentives to transition to cleaner vehicles (electric and LPG).
• Businesses: Potentially impacted by restrictions on access to urban centres for diesel vehicles and changes to traffic flow.
• Residents of Urban Areas: Will benefit from improved air quality, but may experience some disruption during implementation of the changes.

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