Bristol clean air zone plans approved by council

Plans for a clean air zone across Bristol city centre have been approved by the city council's cabinet.

Mayor Marvin Rees revealed his proposals for a charging zone and diesel ban last week after the Government called on cities to cut pollution levels.

The council plans to introduce the scheme in 2021.

So what is a clean air zone?

An area of the city that would charge the most polluting commercial vehicles to enter.

This includes HGVs, taxis and other goods vehicles that would be charged between £9-£100 a day to enter.

There would also be a ban on all private diesel vehicles across a smaller part of the city centre between 7am and 3pm.

Buses, taxis and emergency vehicles would be exempt from this ban and commercial vehicles would be allowed in once they had paid their clean air zone charge.

The boundaries of the proposed clean air zone (left) and part-time diesel ban (right). Credit: Bristol City Council

Why is Bristol City Council considering this scheme?

According to the council around 300 premature deaths a year are linked to air quality.

Last month the Government threatened legal action after the council missed several deadlines to tackle air pollution.

Read more: Government criticises Bristol's action on air pollution

What has been the response to the plans?

A six week consultation was held over summer which laid out the options of a clean air zone and part-time diesel ban.

There were in excess of 5,000 responses from those asked their views about the impact of air pollution on our health.

66% of Bristol respondents said they were 'very concerned' about the health impacts of poor air quality.

Some smaller businesses that rely on travelling through the city are concerned that delivery vehicles would be required to pay when making drop-offs in parts of the city.

Read more: Family relocate to Wales due to Bristol's air pollution

According to the council around 300 premature deaths a year are linked to air quality. Credit: ITV West Country

What happens next?

The proposals are subject to Government approval and consultation with local residents and businesses.

If passed, the changes would be introduced in 2021.

Read more: Bristol's clean air plans include diesel vehicle ban and charging zones