TfGM issues update on Clean Air Plan

Transport for Greater Manchester have issued an update to the Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan and Minimum Licensing Standards, with a consultation planned for Autumn 2020.

Greater Manchester leaders are unveiling a clear single vision supported by three complimentary plans that will accelerate the city-region’s 2038 zero carbon ambitions, build a greener economy and deliver a long-term plan for development.

Later this year, businesses and residents across Greater Manchester will have the chance to input on Greater Manchester’s Plan for Homes, Jobs and the Environment, the Spatial Framework, as well as key elements of the Clean Air Zone and to set minimum standards for taxis and private hire vehicles licensed in the region.

The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted more than ever the importance of securing Greater Manchester’s long-term ambition to create a green and prosperous city-region. The Clean Air Plan, Spatial Framework and Minimum Licensing Standards plans form part of this vision, looking to offer a better quality of life for everyone living and working in the city-region.

The Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan aims to bring nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air pollution levels from road vehicles within legal limits in the shortest possible time and by 2024 at the latest, as directed by government. The wide-ranging proposals, which include the largest Clean Air Zone outside London, include measures to reduce emissions from the most polluting commercial road vehicles, with a package of financial support to encourage businesses to switch to cleaner, low- or zero-emission models.

Greater Manchester is committed to supporting businesses, to make sure they can upgrade to cleaner vehicles ahead of the introduction of the proposed Clean Air Zone. This will include access to lump sum grants or financing options to contribute to the cost of replacement vehicles to move to a modern, compliant fleet.

In response to the Clean Air Plan proposals, government has already committed £41 million to support Greater Manchester businesses, sole traders and the voluntary sector to help upgrade to cleaner commercial vehicles. These vehicles would not be liable to pay a daily charge when a Category C Greater Manchester-wide Clean Air Zone is introduced in spring 2022.

Leaders are also working with government to secure more than £110m in further financial support for those businesses and organisations affected by the Clean Air Zone. This includes £80m for LGV replacement, £10.4m for Hackney cabs and £9m required for bus fleet replacement in GM.

Last year, a public conversation on the Clean Air Plan’s outline business case found that around 70% of individuals were supportive of the proposals.

The overall aim of the government directed Clean Air Zone is to tackle nitrogen dioxide roadside emissions in the shortest time possible, and the proposed funding package as part of Greater Manchester’s plans for affected commercial vehicle owners is to minimise any financial impacts and support them in upgrading from high-polluting vehicles.