A legal challenge against Sadiq Khan begins at the High Court today (Tuesday 4th May), challenging the Mayor of London's plans to expand his Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).
In coalition with the London Boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Harrow and Hillingdon, Surrey County Council is leading legal action against the proposed extension of ULEZ that will cover the whole of Greater London from next month.
If Sadiq gets his way, residents in Surrey will have to pay a daily £12.50 fee to drive into areas like Kingston-upon-Thames, New Malden, Sutton and Wimbledon - all part of the historic county of Surrey - if their vehicle does not meet the required emission standards set out by the Mayor.
Commenting, Cllr Matt Furniss said:
"At the High Court today for our legal challenge to The Mayor of London’s ULEZ expansion.
"Representatives from the five councils – Bexley, Bromley, Harrow, Hillingdon and Surrey – met on the steps of the High Court in central London on Tuesday 4 July, ahead of the opening day of the Judicial Review the coalition has brought against TfL and the Mayor of London, over planned expansion of the ULEZ to outer London.
"The coalition’s case will be argued on three grounds:
- Failure to follow statutory procedure - Schedule 23 Greater London Authority Act 1999
- Unlawful and unfair consultation regarding expected compliance rates in outer London
- Unlawfulness regarding scrappage scheme, including failing to consider a buffer zone, irrationality and inadequate consultation.
"Through the new proposals, anyone driving a non-compliant vehicle in the expanded zone after the scheduled start date on Tuesday 29 August, would stand to be charged £12.50 per day - whether the journey is a 30-mile commute, or a short trip for essential groceries.
"However, it is very disappointing that it has had to come to this. Our concerns have never been addressed by The Mayor, forcing these legal proceedings in order to have the voice of our residents heard.
"We remain committed to delivering a greener future, but it must be done in a practical and sustainable way for Surrey residents."
Pictured, Cllr Matt Furniss outside the High Court
