Sheffield City Council is exploring the practicalities of a congestion charge for the core of the city. Vehicles might be charged about £50 on a daily basis. Buses, coaches, lorries, taxis and vans could all be impacted by the Sheffield scheme. Poster printing can be used to promote fresh initiatives to the public. The hope is that the health of residents may be safeguarded by the Clean Air Zone.
Jack Scott, a councillor with responsibility for transport, told The Star:
“My vision is for air that is clean and safe for every single person in Sheffield. Achieving this is clearly a major piece of work. But the council can’t do it alone.”
Back in 2017, the council launched a strategy for less polluted air. NHS research indicates that thousands of people around the country are passing away prematurely due in part to toxic air. The council will discuss policy options at the end of the month. Consultation with interested local parties should then begin in 2019.
Councillor Scott is keen on obtaining the assistance of central government. Signage and cameras cannot be installed on the cheap. It is thought that an investment of £40 million would enable real progress to be made. The government might decide what to do during the course of next year.