Mayor proposes big rise in congestion charge for 'gas guzzlers'
Fri 14 July 2006
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London's Mayor, Ken Livingstone, has proposed that the London congestion charge should rise to £25 for high carbon cars, with discounts to the current £8 levy for the lowest carbon models. Under the Mayor's proposals, the top rate would apply to any vehicle emitting over 225g/km of CO2 and a lower rate to those under 120g/km.
The Mayor has asked Transport for London to aim for the introduction of the new congestion charges from 2008, providing the new fees are agreed following a consultation period.
The Times reports that the discounts will be introduced first and the higher rates by 2010.
Mr Livingstone said: “My aim is to see the cutting of carbon emissions and the protection of our environment at the heart of the [congestion charge] scheme.
“There is a growing sense of concern amongst Londoners about climate change caused by CO2 emissions, which is the biggest single problem facing humanity, and tackling this threat requires decisive action."
The Mayor's proposals were criticised by the AA Motoring Trust and the Conservative's leader on the London Assembly, but there was support from the Alliance Against Urban 4x4s.
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