Drivers warned of changes to London Emission Zone

Citygate is giving drivers an early warning ahead of major changes to London’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ).

The changes, which take effect from January 3rd 2012, mean the LEZ’s emission standards will become more stringent, affecting about 75,000 drivers of commercial vehicles. Citygate Volkswagen Van Centre is advising Buckinghamshire-based van drivers who travel to London for work, to ensure their vehicle is ready for the change and avoid daily charges of £100 to enter the LEZ and fines of up to £1,000.

At present, vehicles registered as new after 1st October 2001 meet the current standard, but from January 2012 only vehicles registered as new after 1st October 2006 will meet the standards. The LEZ was first introduced in 2008 to encourage the most polluting heavy diesel vehicles driving in the city to become cleaner and now covers most of Greater London. Mark Hudson, head of business, at Citygate Volkswagen Van Centre, said: “The new levels of emissions limit the amount of particle matter coming from vehicle exhausts.

“As a business we’re offering advice to commercial vehicle drivers about the changes and providing cost-effective solutions to reach the new standard to alleviate any problems. We have also put together an offer to help support drivers of older vehicles meet the new standards.”

Cameras monitor the traffic going in and out of the zone. It operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including weekends and public and Bank Holidays. Drivers of vehicles that don’t meet the emissions level will be required to pay £100 or £200 for every day, depending on vehicle size.

Mark added: “Fitting an approved filter to a vehicle’s exhaust could reduce the emissions enough to meet the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) emissions standards.

“It does take at least three months for this to be completed and registered, although there is no time limit on how long the filter will last. “Alternatively individuals or companies have the option of part exchanging a vehicle for a newer, more fuel efficient and greener van.”

Further information can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk or by contacting your local Citygate Van retailer