Little support for diesel surcharge

A CLAMPDOWN on diesel drivers is not backed by the public, a study in Edinburgh found.

A majority of residents said they are opposed to plans by the council for a £40 ‘surcharge’ to be added to the cost of a parking permit for a diesel vehicle.

The City of Edinburgh Council consultation received 5,41 responses and 59 per cent were opposed to a diesel surcharge, while only 3 per cent supported it.

Gordon Lindhurst, Scottish Conservative MSP for the Lothians, said: ‘Those owning high-emission vehicles are already having to pay more, yet the SNP/Labour administration are determined to hit diesel owners harder.

‘It would be unsurprising if the views in Edinburgh were similar to those elsewhere in Scotland, and it’s time that these voices were listened to before any further penalties are imposed.’

The council set out plans for a clampdown on drivers to try to discourage the use of vehicles that are more damaging to the environment and public health.

Adding a surcharge to parking permits in Edinburgh would affect up to 8,000 people.

The city’s transport convener Lesley Macinnes said: ‘By introducing higher permit charges, the council aims to limit the impact of pollution from diesel engines. This will improve the health and quality of life of people living and working in Edinburgh.

‘Of the respondents to the consultation, the vast majority – 8 per cent – agreed that it is important to tackle air quality.’