Diesel-based parking surcharge to be trialled

Westminster City Council is set to trial a pilot scheme which will see emissions-based charging for diesel cars parking within Marylebone.

Set to be introduced by the council from 3 April 2017, the ‘polluter pays’ principle will have the aim of reducing harmful vehicle emissions in Marylebone and any money raised will be spent on initiatives to promote sustainable transport.

The surcharge will add 50 per cent to the current rate of £4.90 per hour in F Zone. Customers are currently able to Park and Pay per minute up to a maximum of 240 minutes (four hours), meaning charges will be 8p per minute in real terms and 12p per minute for diesels.

The pilot 50 per cent surcharge for diesel will also provide valuable insight into how the policy works practically and whether there are positive behavioural changes from it that could be replicated elsewhere.

The green initiatives set to come into play in Westminster in 2017 include freight consolidation and a new EV infrastructure with charging points upgraded and increased by up to 20 new outlets, including some rapid chargers.

Cllr David Harvey, Cabinet Member for Environment, Sports and Community said: “Residents and visitors tell us all the time that air quality is a key concern in central London and we have consulted with our partners and local stakeholders on this practical step in improving our health and well-being.

“We have had a positive impact and reduced vehicle emissions through our anti-idling campaign days and by encouraging sustainable and active travel. Additional charges for diesel vehicles will mean people think twice about using highly polluting cars and invest in cleaner transport that will make a real difference in the quality of air we breathe and our environment.”