Bristol City Council is considering a significant increase in the daily charges for its Clean Air Zone (CAZ), potentially raising the fee from £9 to £14 for non-compliant cars and light goods vehicles. Introduced in 2022 to reduce nitrogen dioxide pollution, the CAZ has yet to achieve the desired improvement in air quality.
According to a recent council report, pollution levels remain above acceptable limits, with areas like Colston Avenue and Bond Street unlikely to meet compliance until 2029 and 2028, respectively, under the current scheme. To accelerate progress, the council is proposing a public consultation on the fee increase as part of a strategy to encourage better compliance.
Currently, non-compliant cars and light goods vehicles pay £9 per day, while heavy goods vehicles, buses, and coaches face a £100 daily charge. The council cited factors such as inflation, evolving travel behaviors, and smaller reductions in nitrogen dioxide in 2024 compared to the previous year as reasons why the existing charges may no longer effectively deter pollution.
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The proposal includes adjusting CAZ charges in line with inflation and applying behavioral change modeling to determine appropriate charge levels. However, the council acknowledges the financial impact of higher charges, especially on socio-economic groups and businesses interacting with the CAZ. Disabled individuals unable to work may be disproportionately affected, as they are less likely to receive financial support and may struggle to afford the increased fees.
The council is now preparing to engage with the public to gather feedback on these proposed changes, aiming to balance environmental goals with affordability concerns.