Clean Air Zones consultation launched

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a new consultation on how to best introduce Clean Air Zones in key cities.

New Clean Air Zones will need to be launched in Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Derby and Southampton by 2020 to deliver on the government’s commitment to reduce emissions. The zones will be targeted to areas of the city with the worst air quality and encourage the replacement of old, polluting vehicles with modern, cleaner alternatives.



While these five cities will be required to implement these measures, all local authorities can introduce Clean Air Zones should they wish to, and the Clean Air Zone Framework under consultation will help local authorities across the country provide a consistent approach.

Additionally, applications are now open for councils to bid for a share of at least £3 million as part of an Air Quality Grant to help improve air quality in their area.



Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey said: “We need to tackle air pollution and creating Clean Air Zones will improve the quality of life for people who live and work in our towns and cities, both now and in the future.

“Real progress has been made, but there is more to do, which is why we have also committed more than £2 billion to greener transport schemes since 2011.”