Blackpool low emission zone claim rejected after petition
Claims Blackpool could introduce a low emission zone which would see some motorists charged for driving through the town centre have been dismissed.
Around 400 people have signed an online petition in protest after Conservative party[1] election candidates warned the council was considering the move. Low emission zones have already been introduced in cities such as London to tackle air pollution.
But Jane Hugo, cabinet member for climate change and environment[2] on Blackpool[3] Council, said the executive rejected the possibility in 2021 after it was among recommendations made by the Blackpool Climate Assembly. The Labour[4] councillor, who is standing in Talbot ward for re-election in May, said: “I want to reassure people that while this was a suggestion put forward at the Climate Assembly, it was dismissed by the executive.
“We want to address climate issues, but not in a way that would cost people money, especially in a town where many are already struggling financially.
“Instead we are looking at solutions which are beneficial to Blackpool including introducing electric buses and encouraging active travel.”
“Instead we are looking at solutions which are beneficial to Blackpool including introducing electric buses” (Image: LancsLive)
Ian White, who along with Will Banks is standing as a Conservative candidate in Talbot ward, said investment in new CCTV cameras to monitor the town centre indicated the council may not have completely shut the door on restricting traffic. He said since launching the petition it has “come to light the idea was rejected for a 2027 roll out, though only in the minutes from a meeting, no official documentation or it would have been picked up on analysis.”
Mr White added: “What Will and I are fighting for, is an official answer that these plans are completely rejected or shelved. Sadly there are too many projects that appear to be put on hold over the election period, potentially to resurface dependant on the results and this must not be one of them.”
A report to the executive on November 8 2021 confirms a recommendation to “implement an ultra-low emissions zone in the town centre by 2027, charging vehicles that are not electric for access” was rejected
One of the reasons given was “Blackpool’s air quality is of a reasonably high standard due to the onshore breeze.”
Other candidates standing in Talbot ward at the May 4 elections are Mark Smith (Labour) and Danny Gee (Independent).
References
- ^ Conservative party (www.lancs.live)
- ^ environment (www.lancs.live)
- ^ Blackpool (www.lancs.live)
- ^ Labour (www.lancs.live)