Government program to reduce pollution through scrapping older cars will end soon as it has already paid out £16 million to drivers.

In just three weeks, the Ulez scrappage scheme will be closing, according to Transport for London. This program has been quite successful, with a total of £16 million being paid out to 54,000 motorists who had to get rid of their vehicles for not meeting emission requirements. The Mayor of London had previously announced that the scheme would be ending for new applicants on September 7th.

Unfortunately, not everyone was able to take advantage of the program. Out of the 61,000 applications made for vans, more than two-thirds were rejected. Similarly, nearly half of the 75,000 applications for cars and motorcycles were also rejected. However, the program was expanded to include all residents, sole traders, small businesses, and charities in London, just before the Ulez area was extended to cover the entire city in August of last year.

Under this program, those who own vehicles that do not meet the minimum emission standards can apply for a cash grant or a combination of cash and a public transport pass to have their vehicles scrapped. There is also an option for some vans and minibuses to be retrofitted with emissions abatement equipment. The grants available range from £1,000 for motorbikes to £9,000 for minibuses.

Since the program opened in January of last year, a total of over £186 million has been committed to nearly 54,000 applicants. However, as applications have significantly decreased in recent weeks, City Hall has announced that the program will be winding down. This decision comes as more than 96% of vehicles seen on London's roads on a typical day now comply with Ulez standards.

London's Mayor, Mr. Khan, expressed his pride in the success of the scrappage scheme, which he believes is the largest of its kind in the UK. He also stated that Ulez compliance has reached an impressive 96%, resulting in cleaner air for millions of Londoners. Mr. Khan remains dedicated to taking further action to improve air quality and promote sustainable transportation in the city.

It is worth noting that over 330 vehicles have been donated through the scrappage program to assist Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Mr. Khan has pledged additional funding to continue supporting this cause even after the scheme closes. Christina Calderato, the director of strategy for Transport for London, commented on the success of the program, stating that there has been a high demand for it since it was opened to all Londoners. However, with the vast majority of those who needed support having already taken action and over 54,000 applications approved, the demand has decreased significantly.

Those who still need assistance are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline on September 8th. Any remaining funds will be considered for other uses to further the Mayor's transport strategy. It is important to note that most vehicles that do not meet the minimum emissions standards and do not qualify for exemptions are required to pay a daily fee of £12.50 for entering the Ulez area. Petrol cars must have been first registered after 2005 to meet Ulez requirements, while most diesel cars must have been registered after September 2015 to be exempt.

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