The expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) has led to significant trade declines for businesses in south-east London, with over 400,000 fines issued to drivers in adjacent counties. Many local businesses report diminished customer visits, attributing the decline to the £12.50 charge for polluting vehicles. While Transport for London claims Ulez generates funds to reinvest in the network, local business owners express frustration over decreased foot traffic. Environmental advocates highlight ongoing air pollution issues despite reductions attributed to Ulez, emphasizing the need for cleaner alternatives.
More than 400,000 drivers in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex have been fined for not paying the £12.50 daily charge for older, more polluting vehicles since it expanded in August 2023.
All the businesses in the area are suffering, every single one of them, and some are closing down because of it.
Customers used to come regularly every single week. Now they come maybe once a year, once every six months, because coming into Ulez becomes less and less attractive.
The starting point for pollution in that area of London was so incredibly high that, even with this, we are all still breathing air that is toxic, and that stunts children's lungs.
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