Proposals to start the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) 18 months early, in 2019, have sent shockwaves through the industry.
The ULEZ, initially in the central area of the city, will require all coaches and buses to be Euro 6. It is then proposed to extend it further out in future years.
Says the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT): “Following last week’s announcement by the Mayor of London, CPT remains concerned that the proposal to introduce the ULEZ for London in 2019 – some 18 months earlier than expected – will have a detrimental effect on both bus and coach operations and visitor numbers to the capital over the coming years.
“This could also have potentially serious repercussions for London’s tourism economy.
It says: “CPT will be examining the Mayor’s proposals in full detail but at this stage we believe that the early introduction of ULEZ could reduce the number of Euro 6 vehicles available by about 25%.
“And, with the retrofitting of Euro 5 vehicles still a way off being a practical and financially viable solution, we are increasingly worried that the industry will not be able to satisfy the demand of London’s customers in the short term.
“A further consultation on proposals for change to the requirements for vehicles entering the wider LEZ is scheduled for the autumn and CPT, whic continues to engage with TfL and other industry stakeholders at all levels on this key issue, will of course be responding robustly to the consultation.
“We urge all of our members to take time to do the same.”
The consultation ends on 25 June.
The consultation is here
