In anticipation of the forthcoming expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to encompass the entirety of London, eligibility criteria for a scrappage scheme have been broadened, granting more individuals the opportunity to participate.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, unveiled a comprehensive initiative, allowing all London residents with non-compliant vehicles to access financial support of up to £2,000 for the replacement of their existing cars.
The revised scheme also extends its support to encompass small businesses, charitable organizations, and individuals with disabilities, thereby amplifying its positive impact across diverse segments of the population.
This augmented approach marks a notable departure from the previous policy, which solely granted access to the scrappage fund for individuals entitled to means-tested benefits.
The recalibrated initiative comes on the heels of an appeal from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who encouraged Mayor Khan to reevaluate the ULEZ expansion strategy, prompted by the Labour Party’s by-election setback in Uxbridge during July.
To facilitate the expansion and further bolster the scrappage scheme, Mayor Khan has earmarked £50 million from City Hall’s reserves. This infusion raises the total allocation for the scrappage fund from £110 million to £160 million.
The implementation of the program is set to follow a first-come, first-served basis. Low-income residents and those with disabilities were already granted an early opportunity to apply, having enjoyed a seven-month head start.
Vehicles that inherently meet ULEZ standards include petrol cars and vans produced after 2006, diesel cars and vans manufactured after 2015, and motorbikes crafted after 2007.
Mr. Khan emphasized, “In our unwavering commitment to shape a cleaner, healthier London that benefits every individual and enterprise, I am resolute in ensuring that no Londoner or business entity is excluded. Our journey towards a sustainable future necessitates a collective effort.”
He went on to underscore his dedication to upholding impactful green policies like ULEZ, debunking any notions of delay, dilution, or regression. Mr. Khan underscored that these initiatives stand as pivotal tools in saving lives, safeguarding respiratory health in children, and combatting the overarching climate crisis.
The Mayor concluded, urging Londoners to proactively seize this opportunity, remarking, “With these measures in place, I extend a sincere invitation to the citizens of London to make the most of the assistance available and actively contribute to our shared environmental objectives.”
