Clean Air Zones rake in £627m in fines
UK motorists receive about 200,000 fines for driving through Clean Air Zones and Low Emission Zones every month.
This is based on Freedom of Information data received from Transport for London and analysed by taxi insurance specialist ChoiceQuote.
11 million fines
It found that in total more than 11 million fines totalling over £627m have been issued since Clean Air Zones and Low Emission Zones were introduced, with eight million of these in London alone.
London launched its Ultra Low Emission Zone in 2019 and expanded it in 2023, while Birmingham introduced its clean air zone in June 2021. Other Clean Air Zones have been introduced in Bristol (2022), Dundee, Edinburgh and Aberdeen.
However, the data also revealed that the number of fines being issued has fallen by about 39% since they were first introduced, suggesting drivers are more aware of regulations and there are a greater number of complaint vehicles on the road.
Lower pollution
Phil Leese from ChoiceQuote said: “It’s positive to see that the introduction of low emission and clean air zones within UK cities is working in minimising the amount of high polluting vehicles travelling through congested areas.
“These zones have influenced driving habits, not only by prompting drivers to avoid certain areas but also by encouraging investment in more environmentally friendly vehicles.
“Data indicates that while a high number of people were charged in the first month of low emission and clean air zone introductions people are now aware of which roads to avoid if their vehicle is not compliant.”
