Greater Manchester is ready to finalise its clean air plan, maintaining its commitment not to charge any vehicles, as expressed by Mayor Andy Burnham.
- The plan, initially delayed due to economic concerns, aims to achieve legal nitrogen dioxide limits by 2026.
- Efforts to improve air quality have already shown positive trends, supported partly by cleaner public transport initiatives.
- The government remains hesitant to fund HGV-related improvements without a charging zone, yet compliance is possible without upgrading the fleet.
- Adaptations in the plan reflect recent changes, with a comprehensive approach to reducing vehicle emissions.
Greater Manchester is actively preparing to submit its clean air plan, steadfast in its decision to avoid implementing charges for vehicles. Andy Burnham, the city’s mayor, firmly stands by this principle, having previously stated that such charges constitute a ‘red line’ for the city. Despite initial plans to launch the clean air initiative in 2022 being halted, the updated approach is anticipated to attain compliance with legal air quality standards for nitrogen dioxide by 2026.
Recent data indicates that air quality within the Greater Manchester area has improved since 2022, driven by investments in cleaner bus technologies, and this improvement surpasses pre-pandemic levels. Nevertheless, a comprehensive strategy addressing emissions from all vehicles remains crucial. Transport for Greater Manchester acknowledges the need to focus on impactful measures in the short term, noting that emissions from heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) remain significantly lower compared to buses and taxis.
Although there is reluctance on behalf of the government to allocate funds for HGV improvements without a charging zone in place, evidence suggests that current compliance levels can be maintained without the immediate need for fleet upgrades. This position is supported by the Greater Manchester joint clean air scrutiny committee which comprises representatives from North West councils.
Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council and head of the clean air initiative, commended the substantial efforts made in achieving notable air quality enhancements. He emphasised the need for a flexible and revised plan, reflecting changes over the past months, to guide the region towards an investment-driven, non-charging clean air strategy. The plan is poised for submission to the government pending necessary approvals.
Greater Manchester remains committed to implementing a non-charging clean air plan, focusing on sustainable and impactful air quality improvements.
