In the autumn BANES Council expects to begin consultation on the draft charging order, which will form the legal basis for enforcing a class C Clean Air Zone in 2021. The zone is being introduced to reduce harmful levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
Private cars and motorbikes will not be charged for entering the zone but vehicles such as vans, lorries, buses, taxis and private hire vehicles will be affected.
Government money of up to £10 million has been secured to help local bus companies to upgrade older buses; to provide financial support to help local businesses and individuals upgrade non-compliant commercial vehicles, and to fund a team of travel advisors to help business access the financial support on offer and encourage people to switch to greener, cleaner travel.
Later this year the council will seek funding for other mitigation measures to help businesses consolidate deliveries and reduce their reliance on large vehicles delivering goods into the city centre by using alternatives such as electric cargo bikes and vans and micro distribution hubs.
More details here.