Road Haulage Operators Get a Timely Reminder from Freight Transport Association

UK – The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has offered a timely reminder to road haulage operators that the new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) requirements for London come into effect on the 3rd January. Hauliers who plan to enter the restricted area should ensure that their vehicles are compliant – or risk hefty penalties.

Drivers of Y registration or 51 plate vans (registered before the 1st January 2002) should avoid the LEZ zone and details of the restrictions which apply to most of the Greater London Area for 24 hours a day every day of the year can be seen HERE. Van operators need to take a look at the TfL guide for larger vans, minibuses and specialist vehicles HERE where one can check if your vehicles are affected and see case histories of vehicles brought up to Euro IV standard with details of costs and requirements.

For FTA members there is a guide available on their website (link HERE) and speaking of the prohibitively high cost of ignoring the regulations (the minimum charge if paid immediately is £250) Natalie Chapman, FTA’s Head of Policy for London commented:

"The penalties are such that non-compliance is simply not an option. Research by FTA shows that fortunately, most large HGV fleet operators will be fully compliant with, or prepared for, the move up from Euro 3 to Euro 4 standard engines. However, for trades people operating vans over ten years old the LEZ will be an entirely new consideration and, therefore, preparedness will be far lower. This is where our immediate concern lies.

"For many small businesses and sole traders, 2011 has been all about keeping afloat and the looming LEZ changes may catch them out. We are advising those with non-compliant vans to stay out of London, but this may prove impossible for London-based van operators."