London Consultation begins into taxi cab age limit exemption

Date: 18/5/2011

Taxi and private hire vehicle trade firms are being asked to come forward and give their opinions as part of a consultation into the use of age limits on such motors driven in London.

From January 2012, vehicles of this kind that are already licensed will be subject to age restrictions, while motors with a new licence entering the market will need to meet with medium emissions standards by April.

This scheme is part of Transport for London's continuing efforts to reduce emissions in the capital, as it notes that road traffic on the city's streets is responsible for 80 per cent of airborne pollution.

Black cabs account for 20 per cent of this figure, the department states.

From May 23rd 2011, professionals within the industry will be invited to offer their opinion on proposed exemptions to the age limit, with a decision set to be announced later in the year.

John Mason, Director of Taxi and Private Hire, says: "The Mayor [Boris Johnson] is implementing a wide range of initiatives aimed at reducing emissions harmful to Londoners' health."

The Mayor recently announced that Renault and Fiat have made a promise to provide a more affordable way to purchase new, greener minibuses and large vans ahead of changes being introduced to the city's Low Emission Zone.

Posted by Nick Anderson