Transport for London is urging drivers to use its online vehicle checker to make sure they don’t get caught out by the new enlarged Ultra Low Emission Zone which has come into force.

The new zone will be 18 times the current central area that has seen toxic pollution slashed by half. It will run 24 hours, seven days a week (except Christmas Day) and covers all areas within the North and South Circular.

It is estimated that 100,000 cars, 35,000 vans and 3,000 lorries could potentially be affected by the tighter standards in the expanded area every day.

It says nearly 10 million people have already used the tool, making sure that their vehicles comply with the new requirements, adding that many of those who travel in the zone have already taken action to clean up their vehicles and help clean up London’s air. More than 80% of vehicles are now compliant, up from 39% in February 2017 when the plans for the larger area were first announced.

“The Ultra Low Emission Zone has already cut nitrogen dioxide pollution by nearly half in central London and the expansion of the zone on 25 October means many more Londoners across the city will enjoy the benefits of cleaner, healthier air,” said London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan.

(Picture – Imperial College)