One year until Aberdeen low emission zone enforced near city’s NorthLink ferry terminal

PEOPLE from Shetland who may be driving off the NorthLink ferry in Aberdeen in the future should perhaps take note that it is one year until the enforcement of a new low emission zone (LEZ) in the city centre.

Cameras are to start being installed on the boundary of the LEZ in the coming months, although people will not be fined until 1 June 2024.

The LEZ in Aberdeen is located to the immediate right of the junction from the NorthLink ferry terminal and covers the main part of the city centre.

A vehicle may only drive within a LEZ if it meets the specified emission standards.

Generally petrol vehicles registered from 2006 onwards and diesel vehicles registered after September 2015 will meet the required standards.

Motorists driving non-compliant vehicles in the area from 1 June next year will be given a fine, although there are exemptions including blue badge holders.

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The initial penalty charge for all non-compliant vehicles is set at £60, reduced by 50 per cent if it is paid within 14 days.

Low emission zones aim to improve air quality in cities by encouraging the use of greener vehicles.

As part of a Scotland-wide programme, LEZs are being introduced in Scotland’s four biggest cities – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen.

The Glasgow LEZ – the first in Scotland – started being enforced this week after a last-ditch legal challenge was thrown out.

The LEZ was technically introduced in Aberdeen in 2022 with a two year ’grace’ period which means between 2022 and 1 June 2024, drivers will not be fined for entering the LEZ with a non-compliant vehicle.

An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “LEZs are being introduced across Scotland to help improve air quality in the city centres of the four biggest cities which contributes to the protection of public health and wellbeing.

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“The LEZ in Aberdeen will also help the city reach its climate change targets by reducing our road transport’s contribution to emissions and prioritising active and sustainable transport movement.

“All of these benefits helps to create a vibrant, accessible, and safe city centre for everyone.”

People can now enter their vehicle registration number on the website for Scotland’s Low Emission Zones to confirm if their vehicle will comply.

Other classes of vehicle which are exempt from the LEZ include emergency services, naval, military or air force vehicles, historic vehicles and motorbikes and mopeds.

Households and micro-businesses can also apply for a cash grant to assist in the change from a non-compliant vehicle.