The Mayor of London has approved plans for a London-wide Low Emission Zone, to cut harmful emissions from the most polluting vehicles. The scheme, the first in the UK and the largest in the world, will be launching next year, improving air quality across the capital.

Ken Livingstone said: ‘In a modern world, city people should all have the opportunity to live and work without fear of being poisoned by the air they breathe. Thousands of Londoners suffer ill-health from the pollution released by traffic fumes ñ so this is why we are launching the Low Emission Zone. It will improve quality of life, and help make the City cleaner and greener for residents and visitors alike.’

The idea is to encourage operators of vehicles such as diesel-engined lorries, coaches and buses ñ to clean up their fleets. Those that do not will be fined.

‘In a world that must be increasingly focussed on tackling climate change, the London Low Emission Zone will state, loud and clear, that we are also a city that places environmental protection at the top of its agenda,’ said the Mayor.

Meanwhile, the number of London cycle journeys has risen by 83 per cent since 2000. The Mayor has also launched a new television advertising campaign, You’re better off by bike. ‘London is experiencing a cycling renaissance,’ he said. ‘We can now justifiably call ourselves a cycling city’ ñ a proposal that would’ve seemed ridiculous six years ago.’

Jenny Jones, Ken Livingstone’s green transport adviser said: ‘This is the year of the bike in London. It will transform the look and feel of our City, because more cyclists mean less congested roads and public transport, and a healthier and more pleasant London for everyone.’

Contact: Greater London Authority,

City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, London,

SE1 2AA. Tel: 020 7983 4000

Website: www.london.gov.uk