Glasgow’s low emission zone (LEZ) has come into force leaving motorists of older cars facing fines for entering the city centre.
From Thursday, all petrol cars made before 2005 and diesels built before September 2014 will be fined £60 for any breach which will then double for every subsequent breach until it reaches a maximum of £480 for cars and light goods vehicles, and £960 for HGVs and buses.
These maximum fines would then be charged for each day the vehicle enters the zone.
A legal challenge to the zone was rejected on Wednesday and the city council have said the new LEZ would ensure “cleaner, more breathable air”.
It comes as London mayor Sadiq Khan has announced an expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to the boundaries of Greater London from August 29. On Thursday, it was announced that the eligibility criteria for the Ulez scrappage scheme was being expanded.
There has been vocal opposition to the plan, including from five Tory-led councils who are taking legal action against the plan for expansion.
Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan, said: “LEZs are an important tool in protecting public health and improving air quality - while at the same time protecting our environment by reducing harmful emissions and encouraging a shift to more sustainable transport."
The zone stretches to the M8 motorway to the north and west, the River Clyde to the south, and the Saltmarket/High Street to the east.
Exemptions will be permitted to blue badge holders, motorbikes, mopeds and emergency vehicles.
Residents of the area have been given a year to prepare for the new zone which will operate throughout the day.
Some businesses and charities have criticised the zone claiming they may be forced to close due to the additional costs to update vehicles and possible fines.
The local council has said in response that 90 per cent of vehicles entering the city centre would be unaffected, with Angus Millar, convener for climate and transport adding: “The LEZ standards will address the small minority of vehicles which pollute the most, disproportionately creating the harmful concentrations of air pollution.
“And by ensuring cleaner air, we can create a safer and more pleasant experience for everyone who lives, works and visits Glasgow city centre.”
All fines from the scheme will also be reduced by 50 per cent if paid within 14 days, while the £60 fine is reset if there have been no breaches for 90 days.
