On 22nd September, London will host the largest ever car-free day in a bid to tackle climate change as announced by mayor Sadiq Khan. The event will draw awareness to the dangers of toxic air and encourage city dwellers to explore the capital without the use of a vehicle.
But, the plan will cost £1million - paid for out of the Greater London Authority’s group budget. This includes £400,000 on shutting the roads, managing traffic, site management and security. A further £600,000 will be used on health and safety, marketing, and managing the event.
So far, 18 boroughs across Greater London have also confirmed they will close more than 200 streets to traffic, transforming them into “Play Streets” for community events. Boroughs including Ealing, Brent, Greenwich, and Tower Hamlets have announced plans to organise their own activities, while others have pledged to support residents who would like to hold a Play Street on the day.
Meanwhile, the Tory Party called the Labour politician’s plan an overpriced PR stunt.
Keith Prince, the Conservatives’ transport spokesperson, said, “Londoners will rightly be angry to learn that they are having to pay £1 million just to be banned from driving in their own city. This is nothing less than a slap in the face and heinous waste of money.”
