New Low Emission Zone for construction machinery in London

A Low Emission Zone (LEZ) for construction machinery has come into force in central London. The new rules are aimed at reducing pollution in the city.

Starting on 1 September, all non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) with net power of 37-560kW and over the age of ten years must be replaced with more efficient machinery or retrofitted with emission reduction technology.

As reported by Business Green, the NRMM regulations cover building sites measuring more than 1,000 square feet or containing more than ten homes. The whole of the Greater London area is covered by the new rules.

If construction companies fail to meet the new standards within six months, they could face time delays or financial penalties for projects.

City Hall estimates that up to 12% of nitrogen oxide and 15% of particulate matter pollution in London is emitted by construction and demolition machines on building sites. By 2020 the new LEZ could drive down pollution levels by 50%.

Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy Matthew Pencharz, said: "Dust and fumes from construction sites are a nuisance to people who live close by but they also impact on London's wider air quality. That's why it's so important for these new emission standards to come in to address the problem."

The new standards are based on an EU Directive 97/68/EC. Initially a higher standard will apply to the Central Activity Zone and Canary Wharf; by 2020 all of Greater London must meet the standard set out in Directive Stage 111B.

The new construction guidelines will work alongside the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) which will be introduced in central London in 2020. Within the ULEZ the most polluting diesel vehicles will pay £12.50 a day in addition to the Congestion Charge.