Two major routes through Bath will be tolled in 2020.
The proposed Clean Air Zone for Bath could have a significant impact on the costs businesses in the area and those passing through on their way to popular tourist attractions and channel ports, according to the Freight Transport Association following the publication of the local council’s consultation document on the scheme.
The Association, which represents more than 17,000 members, recognises that work must be done to improve the state of the nation’s air quality, and welcomes that Bath is proposing a city centre zone, but notes that key local routes – the A4 and A36 – are included, and so the impacts will be felt well beyond the city.
FTA’s Head of UK Policy Christopher Snelling said, “When the proposed Zone comes into effect in 2020, many logistics operators, especially small and medium sized firms, will still have non-compliant vehicles and so will face charges of around £100 per day to get through Bath.
“The effects will be worse if vans are included, which is one of the options. There will only be four years’ worth of compliant vans in the fleet, so any small business that relies on second-hand vehicles in operate in or through Bath maybe priced out of business.
“FTA is offering its experience and expertise to work with the local authority, to help them develop and introduce its plan in a timely and appropriate manner, so that they can achieve their aims of reducing NO2 whilst supporting businesses and the economy.”