The upcoming ULEZ Expansion Update is set to impact thousands of London motorists starting October 2025. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), introduced to curb pollution and promote sustainable travel, will expand to cover additional boroughs in Greater London. This move is part of the city’s broader environmental initiative to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
Drivers owning older petrol or diesel vehicles that do not meet Euro 6 or Euro 4 standards will now face daily charges in newly covered zones. The London congestion charge, already in place in central areas, will continue to operate separately but in tandem with ULEZ regulations. With only a few months left, authorities urge vehicle owners to check their compliance status and prepare for potential financial impacts.
Which Areas Are Affected in the New ULEZ Zone?
The ULEZ Expansion Update will add eight more boroughs to the existing ULEZ network. These include outer zones where air quality monitoring has identified pollution hotspots. The expansion was approved by the Mayor of London as part of the 2025 Clean Air Action Plan.
The new boroughs affected:
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Hounslow
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Redbridge
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Croydon
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Bromley
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Harrow
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Barnet
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Bexley
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Kingston upon Thames
Motorists traveling into or through these boroughs will need to ensure their vehicles are compliant or face a daily £12.50 ULEZ charge. It’s important to note that this is separate from the London congestion charge, which continues to apply in central areas regardless of vehicle type.
ULEZ vs. London Congestion Charge: What’s the Difference?
Many drivers are confused about the difference between the ULEZ Expansion Update and the London congestion charge. Although both are designed to control traffic and emissions, they apply under different conditions.
Here’s a table summarizing the differences:
| Feature | ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) | London Congestion Charge |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Reduce vehicle emissions | Reduce traffic volume |
| Applies to | Non-compliant vehicles (Euro 6/Euro 4) | All vehicles (except exemptions) |
| Fee | £12.50 per day | £15 per day |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 (except Christmas Day) | 7 AM – 6 PM (weekdays) |
| Expansion Date | October 2025 | No recent changes |
The two systems will now work side-by-side in many areas, meaning some drivers may end up paying both charges if they drive a non-compliant vehicle during congestion hours in central boroughs.
Who Will Be Affected Most by the Expansion?
The latest ULEZ Expansion Update targets high-emission vehicles that are still common in outer London boroughs. Owners of diesel vehicles manufactured before 2015 and petrol cars from before 2006 will be the most affected.
Groups most likely to be impacted:
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Delivery and courier drivers with older fleets
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Residents with non-compliant private vehicles
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Tradespeople and small business owners using diesel vans
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Elderly drivers with older personal vehicles
While many low-income Londoners are eligible for scrappage schemes, there’s growing concern about financial strain on those who rely on older cars for essential travel. The Transport for London (TfL) authority is urging all drivers to check compliance through their official checker tool and consider switching to low-emission vehicles.
Government Support and Compliance Assistance
In response to public feedback, the city government is offering extended financial support and advisory services to ease the burden of the ULEZ Expansion Update. A new £120 million scrappage fund has been launched to help replace non-compliant vehicles with greener alternatives.
Support initiatives include:
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Up to £2,000 grants for scrapping non-compliant cars
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£7,000 incentives for scrapping older vans and purchasing electric models
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Free access to ULEZ-exempt car clubs for qualifying residents
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Targeted outreach for businesses and disabled vehicle owners
This move complements the existing London congestion charge exemptions that remain in place for zero-emission vehicles and Blue Badge holders.
Conclusion
The ULEZ Expansion Update scheduled for October 2025 is a significant move in London’s ongoing effort to improve air quality. With more boroughs now affected, thousands of motorists will need to assess their vehicle’s compliance and plan for new daily charges. Combined with the London congestion charge, the system encourages a shift to greener, cleaner transport options. For those driving older cars, now is the time to consider alternatives or apply for available support before the expansion takes effect.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the ULEZ expansion in October 2025?
The expansion aims to reduce pollution by covering more boroughs and targeting high-emission vehicles.
Will I have to pay both ULEZ and congestion charge?
Yes, if you drive a non-compliant vehicle during congestion charge hours in central London, both charges may apply.
How do I know if my vehicle is compliant?
You can check vehicle compliance on the Transport for London (TfL) website using your registration number.
What financial help is available for non-compliant vehicle owners?
The government is offering scrappage grants of up to £7,000 for vans and £2,000 for private vehicles under specific conditions.
Is the ULEZ charge applicable on weekends?
Yes, ULEZ operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except on Christmas Day.
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