Bexley and Bromley Lead Fight Against ULEZ Expansion
Four London boroughs and Surrey County Council have launched a legal battle to stop the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) from creeping beyond the North and South Circular roads.
Councils Take the Mayor to Court
Back in February, Bexley, Bromley, Harrow, Hillingdon, and Surrey County Council challenged the mayor’s plans to enforce a daily £12.50 charge on drivers with non-compliant vehicles in outer London. This stretched ULEZ would cover parts of Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, and Surrey.
Legal Battle Ramps Up After Judge Gives Green Light
A High Court judge ruled in April that some parts of the councils’ arguments are worth debating. The councils say the consultation process was flawed, with no proper cost-benefit analysis and inadequate consideration of scrappage scheme consultations and compliance rates in outer London.
Mayor Vows to Defend ULEZ Expansion
The mayor’s office welcomed the court dismissing most of the councils’ claims. “We will vigorously defend the decision and press on with plans to expand ULEZ,” said a spokesperson.
High Stakes Hearing Set for Tuesday
Mr Justice Swift will hear the case at 10 am this Tuesday. His decision, expected in the coming weeks, could shape the future of London’s fight against air pollution and the controversial £12.50 daily charge for many drivers.
