Which UK cities have congestion charge and clean air zones?
Concerned about congestion charge zones in UK cities? Find out where they are and how much they cost.
Congestion charge zones and clean air zones can be found in various cities across the UK.
Depending on the vehicle you drive, you may have to pay to enter these zones. Or – even worse – fork out for a fine if you get caught without paying.
If you're travelling around the UK, it's worth swotting up on these zones so you're not stung by unexpected costs.
The good news is that we've done the hard work for you. Read on to learn what these zones are for, where to find them and how they might impact your road trip.
What are congestion charge and clean air zones?
Congestion charge zones and clean air zones are designated parts of a city – usually in the city centre – where drivers may have to pay a charge. This charge can vary depending on the type of vehicle they drive.
These zones have changed a bit over the years, so here's a quick history lesson to help you know your CCZs from your ULEZs.
A brief history of clean air and congestion charge zones
The UK's first congestion charge zone was implemented in London in 2003 when Ken Livingstone was mayor. It covered a large area in central London. Its aim was to reduce busy traffic, improve air quality and encourage people to use public transport, cycle or walk.
The CCZ was a controversial move at the time, with lots of drivers unhappy about having to pay to drive in the city. However, policymakers generally considered it a success.
In 2008, the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) was introduced, with charges aimed at larger, more polluting vehicles like buses and lorries.
Then, in 2021, Birmingham introduced its own clean air zone (CAZ). A CAZ is slightly different from a traditional CCZ. Like London's LEZ, it focuses on vehicle emissions rather than just congestion.
Bath joined in soon afterwards – and from 2021 to 2023, Bristol, Bradford, Portsmouth, Sheffield, and Tyneside (Newcastle and Gateshead) all brought in their own CAZs.
Cambridge is also considering introducing a similar policy, as are several Scottish cities, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee.
While this was happening, London was also introducing its impressive-sounding Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). This, again, targeted specific vehicles which didn't meet modern emissions standards.
It was launched in 2019. Over the next few years, it expanded beyond central London. As of 2023, it covers most of Greater London and affects millions of drivers.
How do these zones affect me?
If you find all this info a bit overwhelming, don't worry. We've put together a quick and handy guide to where we are now with congestion charges.
You'll notice that we talk about 'Euro ratings'. This is a measure of the emissions produced by your vehicle.
Not sure of your vehicle's Euro rating? You can check online by following one of the links below and entering your registration number.
London
London is unique in that it has three charging zones: the Low Emission Zone (LEZ), Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Congestion Charge zone (CCZ). Each has different charges associated with it.
- The LEZ covers most of Greater London. It applies mostly to heavier vehicles and costs between £100 and £300 per day.
- The ULEZ covers the same area as the LEZ. It costs £12.50 per day but covers a wider range of vehicles, including many cars.
- The CCZ covers only central London. It costs £15 per day if you pay in advance or on the same day you travel. It costs £17.50 if you pay within the next three days.
Frankly, it's all a bit confusing. Thankfully, Transport for London has a handy tool that will tell you what you can expect to pay.
Birmingham
Birmingham has had a Class D clean air zone since 2021, which stretches from the centre to the city's Middleway Ring Road. Buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles, heavy goods vehicles, vans, minibuses, cars and motorcycles can all be liable for charges.
There's an £8 daily charge for diesel cars that don't meet the Euro 6 standard or petrol cars that don't meet Euro 4. If you don't pay within six days, you'll receive a £120 penalty charge.
You might be able to apply for a temporary exemption permit if you live or work in the Clean Air Zone.
Check your vehicle rating here.
Bristol
Bristol introduced its Class D clean air zone in 2022. It covers the city centre. Like Birmingham's zone, it charges non-exempt buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles, heavy goods vehicles, vans, minibuses, cars and motorcycles.
There's a £9 daily charge for diesel cars that don't meet Euro 6 or petrol cars that don't meet at least Euro 4. If you fail to pay, you have 28 days to pay the clean air zone charge and a penalty charge. Otherwise, the total charge will increase by 50%.
Check your vehicle rating here.
Bath, Bradford, Sheffield and Tyneside
All these areas have Class C clean air zones. This means buses, coaches, taxis, PHVs, HGVs and LGVs can incur fines, but cars are still exempt.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth has a Class B clean air zone, which means buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles and heavy goods vehicles are charged.
Why do we have congestion and clean air charges?
While congestion charges and clean air zones might seem annoying and unnecessary to some drivers, they serve a purpose. They're there to reduce high traffic flow in busy areas, along with the air and noise pollution that goes along with road congestion.
They also raise investment funds for the city's transport system, so things like public transport and cycle lanes can be improved. Moreover, they encourage people to invest in more fuel-efficient vehicles (such as electric cars) and to use more environmentally friendly modes of transport more often.
Renting a car
When you're renting a car, you don't want to be hit with unexpected costs.
That's why it's important to choose an experienced and reputable car rental company.
Remember that many charging zones only apply to older, less fuel-efficient vehicles. A good car rental firm will invest in the latest car models that – with a little luck – won't be eligible for charges.
At MVH Rental, we maintain a fleet of high-quality modern vehicles – and all are fully serviced and valeted before they're allowed on the road. This means a smoother ride for you and your wallet.
Looking to rent a car in Newcastle? Call MVH Rental on (0191) 4888 700 for a quick, competitive quote.
