Boundary for city centre low emission zone changed

People have a last chance to formally object to the proposed boundary for the low emission zone (LEZ).

The geographical boundary of the LEZ has reduced slightly after public feedback and will no longer include East North Street, Commerce Street, and the Wapping Street gyratory.

The boundary would mean the most polluting vehicles will be unable to enter, however, there would be a grace period of two years to enable residents, businesses and visitors time to comply with LEZ requirements.

The LEZ for Aberdeen would operate 24/7 and is one of four Scottish cities which is introducing LEZs by 2024 after legislation was introduced from the Scottish Government.

Exceptions from the LEZ include 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.

It is estimated that by 2024, 86% of cars, 70% of light goods vehicles, 93% of heavy goods vehicles and all taxis in Aberdeen will be compliant with the LEZ.

The minimum emission standards (Euro category) for Scottish Low Emission Zones (LEZs) is Euro 6 for diesel cars and vans (generally vehicles registered from September 2015) and Euro 4 for petrol cars and vans (generally vehicles registered from 2006).

A range of documents, including the option appraisal report, traffic modelling report, air quality assessment, and supporting impact assessments, can be viewed on the Low Emission Zone Consultation page.

A report to city growth and resources committee earlier this year said traffic modelling also indicated that non-compliant traffic displaced by the LEZ could migrate to streets around the periphery of the zone which may be inappropriate for accommodating this additional traffic, specifically Ferryhill Road and Fonthill Road to the south of the LEZ.

The committee agreed a recommendation consideration of an access restriction to Millburn Street from South College Street and Palmerston Place should be made as part of Phase 2 of the South College Street Junction Improvement project.

More information about LEZs in Scotland including a vehicle checker can be found at Low Emission Zones Scotland | Transport Scotland. More information about the Aberdeen LEZ can be found at Low Emission Zone | Aberdeen City Council.

Formal objections to the proposed LEZ boundary finish on Sunday 28 November and must be made in writing, stating the grounds of the objection. They can be submitted via email to transportstrategy@aberdeencity.gov.uk or by letter to Transport Strategy and Programmes, Aberdeen City Council, Business Hub 4, Ground Floor North, Marischal College, Broad Street, Aberdeen AB10 1AB.

All objections will be considered by the City Council prior to submission of the final LEZ scheme to Scottish Ministers for approval.