Manchester Mayor on new car tax fees - would cause 'real hardship' for residents
NEW CAR tax changes will be referred back to the Government after Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, warned the new Clean Air Zone fees would cause "real hardship" to residents.
'Clean air zone' plans mean diesel drivers could face charges
It is understood there is concern electric cars could be too extensive for many petrol and diesel drivers to make the switch. Semiconductor shortages have driven up production costs, while drivers are forced to wait months for their car to be delivered.
Mr Burnham added the current vehicle market means it is “impossible to proceed” with the current deal.
He has pushed for “urgent” discussions with the Government to help “make the scheme fair” for all road users.
Posting on Twitter this lunchtime, Mr Burnham said he would “always stand up for GM (Greater Manchester)”.
He said: “I am pleased that Greater Manchester councils have just voted to refer the Clean Air Zone back to the Government.
READ MORE: New car tax changes will affect ‘tens of thousands’ of drivers
“GM has tried in good faith to make the Government’s legal direction work.
“However, changes in the vehicle market mean it is impossible to proceed on the current basis without causing real hardship to some of our residents.
“We remain committed to tackling illegal levels of air pollution in GM as soon as possible.
“This decision opens up the space for urgent, joint discussions with the Government about potential changes to make the scheme fair for everyone.
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“I am listening to people’s concerns and will always stand up for GM.
“I am not the final decision-maker but will do everything I can, working with [the] Government, to get this to the right place.
“I know it’s difficult but bear with us and I will keep you posted on progress.”
The update comes just a day after councillors met last night to discuss the Clean Air Zone.
Transport for Greater Manchester chief Simon Warburton told representatives he was “no longer confident” in the funding arrangements.
He said the city now faced a “dual challenge” of the volume of vehicles in the market and the prices they were available at.
Many local councillors have been passionately calling for a “rethink” over Clean Air Zone fees.
Paul Sanders, councillor for Farnworth and Kearsley has warned the financial packages available were “not sufficient".
He added support and communication for affected vehicle owners was also “extremely lacking”.
The Conservatives have also attacked the new scheme and called for the project to be scrapped.
Nathan Evans, leader of Trafford Conservatives added there were “concerns about the availability of new models”.
He added the plan would “adversely impact” hard-working local residents.
The Government first asked Manchester to introduce a Clean Air Zone back in early 2020.