The introduction of the Ulez scheme by Mayor Sadiq Khan in 2019 has resulted in a charge of £12.50 per day for cars that are considered polluting, specifically pre-2015 diesel and pre-2006 petrol vehicles. Failure to pay the fee can result in charges of up to £180.
Initially covering most of the city within the North and South Circular, the Ulez scheme will expand to encompass all of Greater London within the next four months, impacting not only residents of outer boroughs but also individuals driving non-compliant vehicles from outside the capital.
A recent report has raised concerns regarding the disproportionate impact this scheme may have on women in outer London, particularly those who drive vehicles that would incur the Ulez fee. The report highlights that women have fewer public transport options available compared to their counterparts in inner London. In London, women are three times more likely than men to do the school run, often engaging in “trip-chaining” – continuing to another location after dropping off their children – due to the additional unpaid household work they bear, such as grocery shopping or caring for older family members.
The report points out, “As a result, if they cannot afford to upgrade their vehicles, more women may be forced to pay the charge or use alternative modes of travel that may be far less convenient for multiple destinations.” It predicts a short to medium-term negative impact resulting from this issue.
Furthermore, the report mentions that women in outer London who cannot afford to upgrade their cars may be reluctant to use public transport due to concerns about personal safety, potentially leading to reduced travel. It emphasizes that individuals on low incomes who rely on “non-compliant” vehicles for commuting will face a disproportionate financial burden, with care workers and lower-paid NHS staff being particularly affected. This could result in difficulties in serving the outer London area and potential displacement of essential healthcare workers from hospitals and care homes in Greater London.
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