Re-elected Mayor of London Sadiq Khan holds a speech after the result declaration at City Hall, in London, Saturday, May 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali) Credit: PA WIRE/PA Images

Sadiq Khan has announced plans to expand the Ultra-Low Emission Zone to the whole of London by next year in an effort to cut congestion and pollution.

The Mayor of London just revealed plans of expanding the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to the whole of Greater London by next year, meaning only ‘clean’ vehicles will not have to pay a fee of £12.50 a day to travel within the M25.

The proposed change for motorists seeks to improve air quality and lower congestion.

According to the Express & Star, Sadiq Khan said: “I believe the proposal to extend the ULEZ London-wide will have the biggest effect on emissions and congestion relative to the potential financial impact on Londoners as a whole.”

He also ruled out a Clean Air Charge, which was going to affect all drivers but the ‘cleanest vehicles’, and tax vehicles registered outside of London for entering the capital.

“Because at a time when people’s budgets are under pressure, I’m not willing to ask people to pay more unless I’m absolutely convinced it’s justified to save lives and protect the health of Londoners.”

The ULEZ was last expanded from the Congestion Charge to the North and South circular roads in October of 2021.