London estate agent Chestertons has worked out that the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) would cost a daily user at least 60% more per year than even the most expensive council tax in Central London.
ULEZ will come into force in central London from 8th April and will charge drivers of high emission cars £12.50 per day, equating to £4,562.50 for someone that uses a car every day. This is substantially more than the council tax bill for residents of properties in even the highest tax band of any of the central London boroughs: For example, the current Band H council tax in Westminster is £1,421 per year; Kensington & Chelsea is £2,246.14 and Camden is £2,834.92.
Transport for London (TFL) is introducing ULEZ to help improve air quality in the capital. Reducing air pollution has become an area of increasing over recent years as a number of studies have shown major health implications due to high levels of pollution in London and members of parliament terming it a national health emergency.
Guy Gittins, managing director of Chestertons said, “There is no doubt that something absolutely must be done about London’s air quality and ULEZ is a step in the right direction. With the potential costs to drivers being higher than their council tax bill, it will no doubt make people think twice about driving in Central London and may even make them question whether they need a car at all.”
Leave a Comment