Clean Air Zone
On 17 December 2015 the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) announced plans to create Clean Air Zones (CAZ’s) in in Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Derby and Southampton by 2020 to improve air quality in those cities.
Charges will be introduced in these air quality hotspots to discourage the most polluting vehicles, such as old buses, taxis, coaches and lorries. Newer vehicles that meet the emission standards will not have to pay the charge, and private car owners will not be affected. This is intended to reduce pollution in city centres and encourage the replacement of old, polluting vehicles with modern, cleaner vehicles.
Local authorities will carry out scoping studies, then consult on the details of the zones. They will only be able to set charges at levels designed to reduce pollution, not to raise additional revenue.
Other measures may include the introduction of park and ride schemes, signage, changes in road layouts and the provision of infrastructure for alternative fuels.
The then Environment Secretary, The Rt Hon Elizabeth Truss MP said, “We want to ensure people can continue to drive into city centres and by targeting action at the most polluting coaches, taxis, buses and lorries we will encourage the use of cleaner vehicles.”
On 13 October 2016, DEFRA launched a consultation seeking views on the implementation of Clean Air Zones in England and on the draft regulations, along with the associated impact assessment.
The consultation closes on 9 December 2016.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Air Quality Taskforce.
- Air quality.
- At a glance - Indoor air quality.
- BSRIA responds to UK Air Pollution Report.
- Construction dust.
- Environmental impact assessment.
- Greenhouse gas.
- Indoor air quality.
- Indoor environmental quality.
- Methane and other gasses from the ground.
- Ozone depleting substance.
- Radon.
- TSI Environmental dust monitoring system.
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).