RAC chief engineer David Bizley said: “We welcome many of the
proposals which have been included in the air quality strategy
published today – namely encouraging local authorities to improve
traffic flow, giving consideration to replacing speed humps with
other means to safely slow vehicles down, a very clear focus on
those most polluting vehicles such as buses and taxis, and
encouraging the cutting of unnecessary engine idling.
“However, it is deeply worrying that local authorities have an
option of introducing chargeable Clean Air Zones which would
affect owners of relatively new diesel and some petrol vehicles.
This potentially could impact millions of motorists and while the
Government has said it wants to discourage authorities from going
down this route, the strategy does not give a clear steer on how
and when local authorities should implement which type of clean
air zone.
“The RAC is clear on this - we believe that efforts should
squarely be focused on tackling those oldest vehicles that do the
highest number of miles in affected areas, and that charges to
owners of all but the newest diesel cars should be an absolute
last resort.
“There is also no guidance yet published on what charges to
motorists might be – which will undoubtedly make many motorists
anxious of what may be in store.
“The Government has ruled out a large scale scrappage scheme on
value for money grounds, but has indicated it is still open to a
more targeted scheme – a move which we cautiously welcome.
“Finally, we believe that improving driving styles can have a
much bigger role to play in reducing emissions than is suggested
in the consultation. Telematics technology is available today to
help drivers achieve change their driving style.”
