From 1st June 2021, Birmingham City Centre will become a Clean Air Zone (CAZ). This is likely to be followed by a number of other cities as the Government expects CAZ’s to be introduced across the UK.
What is a Clean Air Zone?
A CAZ is an area where targeted action is taken to improve air quality. Mainly by discouraging the most polluting vehicles from entering the zone, such as older diesel and petrol vehicles. No cars are banned from the area, however those that are not deemed to have clean enough engines will have to pay a charge.
Where is the Zone?
The zone will cover all the roads in the A4540 Ring Road, but not the Ring Road itself. Click to see a full map of the zone.
Will I be charged?
Vehicles that don’t comply with the new zone standards will be charged to enter. Birmingham City Council have brought in some exemptions for those living in the zone, hackney carriage or private hire drivers and motorcycles. You can find more about any exemptions here. The charges mainly apply to diesels manufactured before 2015 and petrol cars made before 2006. These are seen to have the most polluting engines. You can check if your vehicle will be charged using your registration number, just enter it here.
How much does it cost?
Cars, taxis and vans will be £8, and buses and HGV’s will be £50. This allows you to drive in the zone without any limits for that day.
How do I pay?
You can pay the charge via the Gov website. It is your responsibility to pay the charge. Drivers will not be contacted after entering the zone and will have a 13-day window (6 days prior to visit, day of visit and 6 days after visit) to pay the charge. Failing to pay within this time frame will result in a fine of £120.
For more information on this please see the Brum Breathes website.