Fears for effectiveness of pioneering low emission zone in city centre

The launch of Scotland’s first low emission zone to cut pollution in Glasgow city centre will have little impact, it is claimed.

Friends of the Earth Scotland (FOES) fears plans for the LEZ, due to be unveiled by the city council on Friday, will include only limited restrictions on buses when it comes into force at the end of December. The concerns came as ministers announced 95.5 per cent backing for LEZS in a consultation on their planned introduction to Scotland’s four largest cities by 2020.

Glasgow intends to ban the most polluting buses first, but this may take time to implement. FOES air pol- 0 Anna Richardson says making air cleaner is a priority lution campaigner Emilia Hanna said: “Conversations we have had with Transport Scotland officials have rung major alarm bells about lack of ambition for the first zone in Glasgow, which may do as little as requiring only a small portion of buses to achieve clean emission standards.” Anna Richardson, Glasgow City Council’s sustainability and carbon reduction convener, said: “We are making cleaner air a priority. It is essential the phasing is done at a robust yet realistic pace, that will bring about the air quality improvements we need without having a detrimental impact on public transport or Glasgow’s economy and businesses.”

Transport minister Humza Yousaf said: “These zones will improve air quality, tackle congestion and help improve our urban environments. However, it is critical this is done in a consistent manner and in partnership with local authorities, industry and regional transport partnerships.”