The expansion of London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) has been given the green light by the High Court, marking a significant victory for Mayor Sadiq Khan. The plans, which had faced

opposition from five Conservative-led councils, will enable the charging of older, more polluting vehicles £12.50 per day starting from August 29.

Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his satisfaction with the "landmark decision," emphasizing the positive impact it will have on cleaning up the air in outer London. However, the leader of Surrey County Council, one of the authorities that opposed the expansion, labeled the court's ruling as "incredibly disappointing."

The Ulez, which currently covers the area between the North and South Circular roads, will now extend across Greater London from the end of August. This decision grants the mayor the authority to proceed with the crucial task of addressing air pollution and tackling the climate crisis in the city.

Mr. Justice Swift, who presided over the case, confirmed that the mayor's expansion decision fell within his powers. While acknowledging that the consultation process may not have been in-depth, he deemed it lawful and sufficient for interested parties to provide informed responses.

Despite the court's ruling, there have been protests against the Ulez expansion, with some expressing concerns about its impact on families, businesses, and the second-hand car market. However, Mayor Khan remains resolute in his commitment to improving London's air quality and combating the climate emergency.

The Ulez's new borders will encompass areas in Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, and Surrey. While there is dissent among some quarters, the court's decision paves the way for an important step forward in London's efforts to achieve cleaner and more sustainable urban living. Photo by Chabad Lubavitch, Wikimedia commons.