Edinburgh LEZ Signage Goes up Ahead of the Scheme Going Live in June
Locals warned to brace for changes to street layouts at the boundaries
Official road signs have been put in place around the boundary of Edinburgh's forthcoming 'Low Emission Zone'.
It's still six months until the scheme takes effect, but drivers are being urged to prepare for the changes, which will see ore polluting vehicles hit with Penalty Charge Notices if they cross into the designated zone running around the city centre.
In the new year, we're being told to expect some changes to street layouts and signals around the LEZ boundary
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said:
"While enforcement against non-compliant vehicles won’t begin until 1 June 2024, these signs are a reminder that the changes will soon come into force.
By allowing a two-year grace period we wanted to give people plenty of time to prepare for the LEZ. However, with six months to go there’s still time, and I’d urge anyone who’s eligible to apply for the support funds on offer."
"Essentially, reducing the most polluting vehicles from the city will benefit everyone. Air pollution harms both our physical and mental health, so the LEZ we will help create a healthier place for everyone, reducing inequalities and making the city centre a more welcoming place."
The Council has pointed out that some households and small businesses may be eligible for the Low Emission Zone Support Fund, funded by Transport Scotland and administered by Energy Saving Trust. This offers successful applicants grants to dispose of non-compliant vehicles and to help households invest in more sustainable forms of transport, including public transport or bike hire schemes.
A number of Edinburgh residents have been campaigning against the changes, but the Council have pointed to Independent market research carried out in June, which they say indicates "a majority of drivers in Edinburgh continue to support the LEZ and think protecting public health is important".
A city centre LEZ was introduced in Edinburgh on 31 May 2022, along with LEZs in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee, restricting the most polluting vehicles only and benefiting everyone’s health. In Edinburgh, a two-year grace period is in place, meaning no PCN charges will be issued during this time.