Pedestrians good, motorcyclists bad
London's plans to put pedestrians first
Daily fees, limited parking, restricted access, slower speeds: the future for many a biker in London.
Come April 8th, if you ride a pre-2007 motorbike in London, you’ll likely have to part with £12.50 a day. Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees are to replace the current T-charge (of which motorcyclists are exempt). ULEZ specifies that those riding a motorcycle which does not meet Euro 3 standards will have to pay a £12.50 a day charge to do so. And unlike the current T-charge, ULEZ will apply 24/7, rather than being restricted to working hours.
The plans are to help tackle toxic air pollution. Road transport emissions in central London are estimated to fall by an extra 20 per cent due to the new measures.
On top of this, the City of London is in an open discussion over a
proposed Transport Strategy which could further affect motorcycling in the City. Increasing pedestrian safety is at the forefront of its 10 key proposals. Those of which include introducing a Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in the centre of London, with the possibility of implementing it City-wide, achievable by restricting access and charging non-zero-emission-capable vehicles.
There are also plans to reduce the speed limit to 15mph by 2022. Added to this will be the relocation and reduction of on-street car and motorcycling parking in a bid to make pavements wider. Parking charges will also apply during evenings and weekends, instead of just working hours, and a maximum on-street parking time will be applied.
Obviously, pedestrian safety and lowering emissions are of the utmost importance within the city. Though, understandably, there are motorcyclists and other vehicle users who are less than happy with the proposals. Motorcycling has traditionally been seen as a viable way of reducing congestion, and many are keen to promote its benefits at this time. ULEZ was contested by some bikers, and it seems, so too is the Transport Strategy. The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) is encouraging users of the zone to speak up against the City of London's plans. The consultation is open until January 13th.
What do you think about ULEZ and the proposed Transportation Strategy? Will it affect you, and if so, will you be biting the bullet and riding in anyway, or will you make alternative plans? Are the changes a step too far, or are they necessary for the safety of London? We'd love to know what you think.
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