George Alting, Windsurfer and Videographer

Christina Calderato, TfL’s Director of Transport Strategy & Policy, said: “The ULEZ expansion is the action needed to tackle the air quality crisis in the capital, which contributes to thousands of deaths each year and is linked to heart disease, dementia and the stunted development of children’s lungs.

“Around 87 per cent of vehicles in the expanded zone already comply, and we’re encouraging those whose vehicles don’t meet the standard to consider public transport if they can’t travel on foot or by bike instead. Thanks to price capping, an unlimited amount of trips can be taken on our network each day for less than the cost to enter the ULEZ, and the Hopper fare offers unlimited bus journeys within the hour for £1.55, on what is already a low-cost way to get around the city.” 

 A spokesperson for the Mayor of London, said: "We know toxic air pollution in London stunts the growth of children’s lungs and worsens chronic illnesses, such as asthma and our own research confirms that those exposed to the worst air pollution are more likely to be Londoners living in deprived areas and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. 

“The bold action taken by Sadiq since he became Mayor has already led to a 94 per cent reduction in the number of Londoners living in areas that exceed the legal limit for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels and the gap between the most and least deprived areas for exposure to nitrogen dioxide has narrowed by up to 50 per cent. 

“The Mayor has allocated £61 million to vehicle scrappage, to help low income and disabled Londoners, as well as small businesses and charities, scrap vans, cars and motorcycles that do not comply with the new ULEZ standards. These schemes have proven to be hugely popular. TfL has returned public transport service levels back to pre-pandemic levels, and the network is ready to support Londoners as they return to work and school.”