Drivers could receive a £4,000 grant ahead of new car tax changes this summer
DRIVERS could receive up to £4,000 in free money to change their vehicles ahead of new car tax changes coming this summer.
'Clean air zone' plans mean diesel drivers could face charges
Bristol City Council’s Clean Air Zone will launch from summer 2022 with daily £9 charges applying to non-exempt vehicles. Only petrol models which meet Euro 4,5 and 6 standard and Euro 6 diesel models will avoid the fees.
This means petrol vehicles built before 2006 and diesel cars before 2015 could be hit with expensive charges.
However, Bristol City Council has confirmed a £42million support package will be available to residents.
This will include £1.8million of loans and grants to ensure drivers have a compliant car.
Owners of private vehicles will be set to receive a £2,000 grant which is free money drivers can use to upgrade.
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Alongside this, drivers can also secure a £5,000 loan as a top-up but this will need to be paid back.
Individuals will need to work in the Clean Air Zone to apply for funding.
Those who make a claim must earn less than £26,000 to be prioritised in the first round of funding.
Owners of light goods vehicles such as vans will be able to claim a £4,000 grant towards an upgrade.
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Drivers will also be able to secure a £16,000 loan to secure a vehicle.
The council has ensured up to £9.6million worth of funding is available for LGV owners to help small businesses.
Small and medium-sized enterprises and self-employed people will be prioritised for business grants.
The council confirms this may be extended to other businesses and organisations in the spring.
But this does depend on how many loans and grants have already been granted.
Bristol City Council said the financial scheme could ensure drivers pay less “over the longer term”.
They said: “Our support scheme is designed to significantly reduce the final cost of either replacing or adapting vehicles that don’t meet the zone’s emission standards.
“For many individuals or businesses, upgrading to a vehicle that meets the zone’s emission standards could be a cost-effective alternative to paying the charge over the longer term.
“Eligible residents and businesses will be able to apply for the maximum grant or the maximum loan.
“The council will pay the interest on all loans.
“Priority will be given to individuals, sole traders, charities and small businesses located in the Bristol City Council area and neighbouring areas, or with premises in the zone.”