Cameras to enforce Bath’s new Clean Air Zone have been switched on to test the system ahead of the proposed launch next March.
The Clean Air Zone boundary, coming into force in March 2021
Bath & North East Somerset Council has installed 140 signs in and around the Clean Air Zone (CAZ) boundary, warning that charges will begin from 15th March for non-compliant vehicles.
Temporary covers will be taken off overnight on 14th March, revealing permanent signage to warn drivers they are entering the Class C charging zone.
Automatic number plate recognition cameras have been switched on, allowing the local authority to test its enforcement system for vehicles entering the zone
Though charges will not apply until the CAZ is launched, owners of non-compliant vehicles who enter the zone during December and January will receive a letter in February warning them that their vehicle will be subject to a charge from 15th March.
The notice letters will include useful information about how to check their vehicle, pay the charge and apply for support to upgrade to a compliant vehicle if eligible.
Next week will see all homes and businesses across Bath & North East Somerset receive a postcard through the mail with key information about the Clean Air Zone.
From 15th March, Bath’s Clean Air Zone will operate in the centre of the city 7 days a week, 24 hours and day, all year round.
Charges will not apply to private cars or motorbikes, but most other vehicles will have to pay a daily charge if they don’t meet certain emission standards.
Pre euro VI/6 diesel and pre-euro IV/4 petrol buses, coaches and HGVs will be charged £100 per day to drive in the zone, while pre euro 6 diesel/pre euro 4 petrol taxis, private hire vehicles, LGVs, vans, pick-ups, campers and minibuses will be charged £9 a day.
It will be up to the driver/owner of the vehicle to check their vehicle and pay within 7 days of driving in the zone at www.gov.uk/cleanairzone or they may receive a penalty charge notice.
Councillor Sarah Warren, joint Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Neighbourhood Services, said: “This test run is an important step for Bath’s Clean Air Zone. The signage will ensure that everyone who regularly drives in Bath is aware of charges starting in the spring, and what it might mean for them.
“We hope it will prompt many more drivers to check their vehicle at www.gov.uk/cleanairzone sooner rather than later.
“If you’ve checked your vehicle and charges apply, you could be eligible for financial support to upgrade or replace your vehicle with a cleaner one.
“Our aim is not to have polluting vehicles paying to enter the zone but to have as many businesses as possible benefit from this support before the zone starts.
“Local exemptions are also available for hard to replace vehicles and vulnerable groups. So please find out more at www.bathnes.gov.uk/BathCAZ.”
Councillor Joanna Wright, joint cabinet member for Transport Services, added: “As vehicles are gradually upgraded or replaced, it will be interesting to see the impact of the charging zone and our support package on air quality.
“Air quality and traffic levels across Bath & North East Somerset are constantly monitored to ensure that our actions help to improve the health and quality of life for the people who live, work and visit the city.
“We want to see cleaner air as soon as possible, and everyone can help by walking, cycling or sharing their journey wherever possible, even if CAZ charges don’t apply.”
