Clean Air Zone - Newsletter October 2022
First stage in Clean Air Zone introduction under way
In our last update we told you about our plans for a phased introduction of the Clean Air Zone.
This included details of three phases in which the zone signage and cameras would be put in place initially, followed by the introduction of charging for non-compliant vehicles in two separate stages in January and July 2023.
We are now at the start of the first phase, which means that the zone is now in operation – although again, there will be no charges until next year.
From today you will begin to see these signs and cameras in and around the zone, as well as on approaching routes.
There are 38 cameras and 43 entry signs around the boundary of the zone along with an additional 96 signs giving advanced information outside of the zone and a further 51 reminder signs inside the zone.
In addition, messages will be displayed at intervals on the electronic VMS signs to inform people that charging will start from January 2023.
The cameras are now monitoring traffic entering the zone and, from November, owners of non-compliant vehicles will receive a letter that will include information about how to find out about help and support with upgrading the vehicle.
There will be no charges to enter the zone at this stage and we are encouraging anyone who thinks they might be affected to check their vehicle and find out what they need to do to get CAZ compliant.
Vehicle upgrade grants
We know many of you are waiting for information about vehicle upgrade grants and how to apply.
We’re currently finalising arrangements to issue grants and we will provide further information for you as soon as we can.
When charging does begin, if you are a vehicle owner and are in the process of applying for a grant and upgrading a vehicle you may be entitled to an exemption from CAZ charges until your upgrade is complete.
Update for taxi and private hire drivers
From today we’ve published information about a local discount licence available to drivers in Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside (the three councils covered by the original legal order from government).
This will cost £50 and will allow travel into the zone over seven consecutive days instead of paying the standard £12.50 daily charge.
You won’t be able to apply for this until January 2023 but you can get more information about how this will work at www.breathe-cleanair.com/taxi-drivers.
A few reminders
The CAZ is being introduced to help improve air quality and create a healthier environment by encouraging people and businesses with older, more polluting vehicles to upgrade to cleaner models.
Remember that not all vehicles are affected by the CAZ so it’s important that you check.
You can do this using the government’s online vehicle checker at www.gov.uk/clean-air-zones.
Private cars, motorbikes and lower emission vehicles will not be charged.
There are also a number of exemptions – details of which can be found at www.breathe-cleanair.com/exemptions
Charging will be introduced in two phases – with non-compliant taxis, private hire vehicles, buses, coaches and HGVs being charged from 30 January 2023.
Vans and light goods vehicles will not face charges until July 2023 to allow extra time for vehicle replacements, which are currently affected by a national supply shortage.
More information is available at www.breathe-cleanair.com.
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