Defra has awarded funding to local authority schemes that will help improve air quality including through driving uptake of ULEVs.

Environment Minister Therese Coffey.

The 2016/17 Air Quality Grant scheme will focus on supporting schemes set up to tackle nitrogen dioxide levels with successful local authorities awarded a share of £3.7m.

Wining schemes include electric vehicle charging and infrastructure improvements and an electric vehicle car club in East Herts, which are awarded £163,100 while a Clean Air Zone study by Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils is granted £498,600.

Defra also announced a £400,000 grant to support Nottingham trial fuel cell technology and encourage ultra-low emission vehicles in the local NHS.

Environment Minister Therese Coffey said: “Tackling poor air quality is a priority for the Government and we are working closely with Local Authorities so they can play a crucial role in this.

“I was delighted at the broad range of ideas submitted, from using the latest technology to promoting cleaner taxis and increasing the uptake of electric vehicles, and these projects will help to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in our towns and cities, both now and in the future.”

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