Portsmouth Clean Air Zone: What is a Clean Air Zone, when does it start in Portsmouth, what vehicles will be charged and how much will it cost?

The city is densely populated and individual vehicles contribute to 50 per cent of air pollution.

Air pollution is the biggest environmental killer in the UK.

A clean air zone is the preferred method by the government to address air pollution in a number of UK cities – a new low emission zone was introduced in London on October 25.

Here is everything you need to know about Portsmouth's new clean air zone:

What is a Clean Air Zone?

A clean air zone is the government's preferred approach when it comes to combatting air pollution.

In one of these zones, vehicles will be charged for driving within certain areas.

This is set to be introduced in sections of Portsmouth this year.

The oldest and most polluting vehicles will be charged.

There are two categories of clean air zones which are charging and non-charging.

The government has required Portsmouth to implement a charging clean air zone.

Why does Portsmouth need a Clean Air Zone?

Portsmouth City Council was identified by the government as one of over 60 authorities that had excessively high air pollution levels.

Due to this, improvements need to be made in the city and this includes a charging clean air zone.