Sadiq Khan Snubs 24-Hour ULEZ Cooldown for Night Workers
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has shot down calls for a “24-hour cooldown” period on Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges. The proposed rule would have stopped drivers of polluting cars from being hit with multiple daily fees—especially a lifeline for night shift workers hit hardest by the pricey £12.50 daily toll.
Night Shift Workers Slammed with Double ULEZ Fees
Since the ULEZ expanded to all Greater London, drivers of older, non-compliant vehicles face a daily £12.50 charge resetting at midnight. For 9–5 commuters, that’s just one fee a day. But for night shift workers travelling in the early morning, it means getting slugged twice in 24 hours—stacking up to six charges weekly.
Khan’s Office Defends Decision, Points to Alternatives
Labour’s Dr Onkar Sahota flagged the double charging to Khan, urging a cooldown to ease the burden. But the Mayor’s office hit back, praising night buses and Tube services as travel options. They also stressed that 95.3% of London cars now meet ULEZ rules, meaning only a small minority face charges.
To soften the blow, Khan’s team pointed to a £160m scrappage scheme, available to any Londoner with a non-compliant vehicle, helping them ditch their old rides.
Lib Dem Candidate Calls for Smarter Charging
Liberal Democrat mayoral hopeful Rob Blackie also condemned the double charge on night workers, calling for a fairer, more targeted ULEZ system.
Balancing Act: Environment vs. Night Shift Needs
While recognising night workers’ vital role, Khan’s refusal of the cooldown reflects the tricky balance between green goals and practical transport policy. But his office promises ongoing reviews to tweak ULEZ rules for London’s diverse commuters.
