Low Emission Zone to hit truckers
07/02/2008
It may just have happened in London for the moment, but there's a
widespread feeling that we Scots should be keeping a watchful eye over our
shoulders. "London's new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) will have a serious impact
on heavy goods vehicle operators, and
the truck sector is paying a high price," according to Sue Robinson,
Director of the RMI's National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA)
commented as the new emissions-based congestion charging got underway in
London.
Under the new rules, operators of lorries, buses and coaches which do not
meet the Low Emission Zone emissions standards of Euro III for particulate
matter will have to pay a charge of £200.
"To avoid paying the charge, operators will need to either upgrade or
replace their vehicles," Robinson continued. "Considering the cost of these
vehicles, very few will be able to replace an entire fleet at once, and
upgrades will also be costly. Some may be forced out of business. This
could have a wider impact, further strangling the already hard-pressed HGV
operators, and hitting truck retailers too in the long run.
"The environment must be protected, and we fully support the intentions
behind the establishment of the LEZ, but the needs of business and the
wider economy must also be considered. We continue to take this message to
Government."