Bath is a place of beauty, history and culture, but over the years, it has become increasingly polluted due to increased traffic. To address this issue, the UK government has introduced a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in Bath to reduce the number of high-polluting vehicles travelling through the city centre.
When was Bath’s clean air zone introduced?
Bath's Clean Air Zone was launched on the 15th of March, 2021. It covers an area within the inner city boundary and encompasses all roads inside the A36 and A46. All non-compliant vehicles are required to pay a daily charge to enter the zone, with the aim of encouraging cleaner vehicles on the roads. This clean air zone operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is enforced by cameras with automatic number plate recognition technology.
The daily charge for non-compliant vehicles is £9 for cars, vans and taxis, while buses, coaches and lorries are charged £100 a day. To avoid paying the charge, drivers of non-compliant vehicles will have look at swapping out their motor for a more eco-friendly option, find an alternative mode of travel, or obtain an exemption or discounts. Exemptions are only granted for certain types of vehicles, such as military or emergency vehicles, while discounts are available to residents of the zone or those who require their vehicle for essential journeys within the zone.
To check whether your vehicle meets the required emission standards, you can use one of the readily available online tools. All you need to do is enter your vehicle registration number, and the tool will tell you whether your vehicle is compliant or non-compliant with the CAZ regulations.
Alternative Travel Options
To help drivers find alternative modes of travel, Bath has launched a new Park & Ride bus service. There are three Park & Ride locations in the city with over 2,000 parking spaces, including one at Odd Down, one at Lansdown and one at Newbridge. The service runs every ten minutes and is an affordable and efficient alternative to driving into the city centre. Bath also has an extensive cycle network, with cycle lanes and routes throughout the city, making cycling a viable option for many.
Importance of Bath's Clean Air Zone
The implementation of Bath's Clean Air Zone is a necessary step in reducing pollution in the city and improving air quality for everyone. By following the regulations and opting for alternative modes of travel, we can all contribute to achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment. Remember to check your vehicle's emission standards and explore alternative travel options to avoid paying the daily charge.
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