A judicial review challenging the proposed expansion of London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) initiated by Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, is set to commence today at the High Court. The legal action has been brought forth by five Conservative-led councils, namely Bexley, Bromley, Harrow, Hillingdon, and Surrey, who have raised concerns over the scheme’s implementation, scheduled to cover the entire city from the end of August.
The challenge was first launched when the councils jointly wrote a letter to the Mayor of London in January expressing their apprehensions regarding the ULEZ expansion plans. They voiced serious concerns about the adverse effects it would have on residents, businesses, and visitors in outer London.
ULEZ Statement from Bexley, Bromley, Harrow, Hillingdon, and Surrey councils
A statement issued by the councils emphasised their discontent, stating, “Our growing coalition of London councils are not satisfied with the justification for the expansion and remain strongly opposed to it. Until we have seen compelling evidence to the contrary, it remains our position that this scheme will not translate successfully to outer London, and the negative impact on local households and economies will far outweigh the negligible air quality benefits.”
In April, a High Court judge granted permission for the councils to proceed with their challenge, deeming certain aspects of their case arguable. Now, the hearing is scheduled to commence today at 10am, as the High Court has allowed the case to proceed on two grounds: the legal basis for the scheme and scrappage.
The challenge aims to assess the legal foundations of the ULEZ expansion, as well as its potential impact on the scrappage of vehicles that do not meet emission standards. This review will provide a platform for the councils to present their arguments against the scheme, highlighting their concerns regarding its viability and the potential economic repercussions it may entail for the affected regions.
The outcome of this judicial review will significantly impact the future of the ULEZ expansion and its implementation across London. The court proceedings will delve into the core issues raised by the councils and evaluate the evidence and justifications put forth by the Mayor’s office.
As the hearing unfolds, it remains to be seen how the High Court will rule on the matter and what implications it will have for London’s efforts to combat air pollution through the expansion of the ULEZ.
Harrow Online will provide updates on the progress of the case as more information becomes available.
