Harrow Council, along with four other councils, are pursuing a legal challenge against Transport for London’s (TfL) proposed expansion of its Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ).
The expansion, which is set to take place on August 29, will see people across Greater London face a daily charge of £12.50 to drive in the city.
In a message to residents posted in the MyHarrow newsletter, Harrow Council leader Cllr Paul Osborn said that the council had received “encouraging news from the High Court” confirming that their objections to the ULEZ expansion had grounds to be considered in law and their judicial review can proceed.
“The case could have been thrown out at this stage, but this ruling confirms that the Mayor and TfL have a case to answer, and questions remain about whether they’ve acted legally,” said Cllr Osborn.
The hearing for the judicial review is likely to be listed in early July, giving residents and councils alike hope that they can stop the ULEZ expansion.
“I know a lot of people are backing us in this fight. They feel very strongly that the scheme is unfair and object to it being imposed against their will. Many will be understandably worried about the financial burden ULEZ represents and how they will cope if the Mayor gets his way. We will continue to do all we can to give them a voice and I look forward to keeping you updated,” said Cllr Osborn.
The proposed ULEZ expansion has been a controversial topic, with many residents and businesses expressing their concern over the financial burden it will impose on them.
The ULEZ was first introduced in 2019 in central London to tackle air pollution, with only vehicles that meet certain emission standards allowed to enter without paying a charge.
Cllr Osborn ended his message by wishing all Sikh residents in Harrow a happy Vaisakhi.
