The perimeter for a proposed low emission zone (LEZ) for Aberdeen’s city centre has been agreed by the council’s city growth and resources committee.
The boundary would mean an area of the city would be off limits to the most polluting vehicles, however there would be a grace period of two years to enable residents, businesses and visitors time to comply with LEZ requirements.
Following unanimous approval at a meeting of the committee, the city council will conduct an eight-week consultation which starts today [28 June] until 22 August. It will also formally publish the proposals and open a four-week objection period, and then formally submit the scheme to Scottish government later in the year.
Eight options for a LEZ were put forward for considered and based on the feedback received from consultation and traffic modelling results, some additional options were tested. The preferred boundary combines elements of two options.
According to the council, the plans should maximise the air quality and public health benefits, while minimising negative impacts on local residents and businesses.
Aberdeen city council city growth and resources committee convener Ryan Houghton, said: “This is a significant step forward for an LEZ in Aberdeen. The creation of an LEZ will help improve air quality for the city centre and I welcome the committee’s decision today.”
The LEZ would operate 24/7 with exceptions for emergency services, naval, military or air force vehicles, historic vehicles, vehicles for disabled persons including those being driven by a blue badge holder or with a blue badge holder as a passenger, showman vehicles, and motorbikes and mopeds.
Aberdeen LEZ is one of four Scottish cities which is looking to introduce LEZs by 2024, following Scottish government legislation.
