The Government’s previously delayed online vehicle checker service has launched, helping drivers and businesses to prepare for the introduction of Clean Air Zone charging in Birmingham and Leeds.

Further local authorities including Bath and Sheffield are bringing in chargeable Clean Air Zones in 2020 and 2021

The tool was meant to be ready in October 2019 to support the January 2020 introduction of the two schemes but was delayed. As a result, both cities’ schemes are not now expected to come into effect until July this year.

The vehicle checker will allow drivers to find out if they will be affected by the charges, which will be levied on the most polluting vehicles entering the cities.

Leeds City Council is bringing in a ‘Class B’ Clean Air Zone, which will see charges levied on older polluting buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles and HGVs while Birmingham City Council is bringing in a ‘Class D’ charging zone, which will also apply to some vans and private cars. Birmingham is also considering a city centre car ban as part of a transport shake-up.

Further local authorities including Bath and Sheffield are bringing in Clean Air Zones in 2020 and 2021 and will also be responsible for introducing charges.

To access the new online vehicle checker, click here.