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The man in charge of the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) has warned firms that they "cannot afford to wait any longer" to upgrade their non-compliant vehicles. Nick Fairholme, head of the LEZ, says owners and operators should understand time is running out and that the introduction of the scheme on 4 February next year is "approaching fast".

He adds: "Our message to operators is take action now, you cannot afford to wait any longer." Lorries that drive through the zone and do not meet the  required Euro 3 emissions standard for particulate matter will face a daily charge of £200.  If this is not paid, owners face a penalty charge of £1,000. Hauliers with older vehicles that may still comply can now book low-emission certificate (LEC) tests through VOSA.

Fairholme adds: "It is a big advantage for operators to get their test completed early. "They will have time to deal with any issues that arise during the inspection and avoid the rush before the scheme starts." Fairholme says that other towns and cities in the UK will study how London's LEZ operators before they commit to their own low-emission projects.  He adds: "We are keen that we should set a high standard and ensure it works well."

Permanent cameras will be positioned on major routes around the zone and mobile camera units will be deployed to catch out non-compliant trucks.  The cameras will used automatic number-plate recognition technology. Fairholme says he understands that lead  time sfor new vehicles are long, but states there is plenty of retrofitting technology and capacity available. He adds: "Everything is on track for next February.  It's critical we improve air quality in London and ensure all businesses play their part."