Greater Manchester's leaders to discuss next steps for clean air zone
The original plans were scrapped last month
Greater Manchester’s clean air leaders will meet today to consider what's next for the region's clean air zone.
The Air Quality Administration Committee will meet at 2pm to discuss a report outlining the possible next steps for the scheme.
Daily charges for the most polluting vehicles had been due to begin on 30 May 2022 but will now not go ahead.
The plans for the clean air zone were scrapped at the start of February amid a huge backlash and concerns people were unable to purchase compliant vehicles.
The government came to an agreement with leaders here that the current proposals to reduce air pollution in Greater Manchester were unworkable.
Originally a Clean Air Zone would have needed to have been implemented across the region by 2024.
The direction now requires Greater Manchester’s 10 local authorities to bring dangerous nitrogen dioxide levels on local roads to within legal limits by no later than 2026.
Local authorities now have until 1 July 2022 to work with the government to develop a new plan to improve the region's air quality.
Current signs to be covered
Local authorities are also set to start the task of covering up the hundreds of signs that inform motorists of the charges that were due to come into force in May.
However, automatic number plate recognition cameras will stay up and be used to gather data to help decision-makers understand why levels of pollution are so high in certain areas.
A Clean Air Greater Manchester spokesperson said: “It is important that people are aware of the current status of the Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan.
“Please sign up for updates on the latest information relating to the Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan at www.cleanairgm.com.
"More information about how the new plan will be developed will be made available in the coming weeks."