Logistics UK has released a statement following the announcement of the Bath and Birmingham Clean Air Zones.
Chris Yarsley, Policy Manager at Logistics UK, said: “Logistics UK welcomes the clarity which today’s announcement provides on the date for the introduction of the Clean Air Zones in Bath (on 15 March 2021) and Birmingham (on 1 June 2021), which the business group has been working on with the local authority for some time. This will allow logistics operators time to plan new business practices and speed vehicle replacement timelines where necessary.
“News that support packages will be available for operators to assist with the acquisition of Euro VI standard vehicles is also positive encouragement for a sector which has been impacted by the downturn of the economy caused by the COVID19 pandemic, and is only now starting to return to pre-pandemic levels of trading.
“Logistics operators remain committed to cleaning up urban air but it is important that other contributory factors to air quality are also considered in the longer term, including improvements to traffic flow patterns, retiming of deliveries and the introduction of alternatively fuelled vehicles, as well as other sources of air pollution, to the benefit of all.
“Those affected by charges are advised to check the councils’ websites at www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathCaz and www.brumbreathes.co.uk for a list of local exemptions and whether they might be eligible for financial support to upgrade their vehicle or fleet.”
