Harmless smoke released to mark Clear Air Zone launch

Harmless smoke was seen pouring into Birmingham 's skyline yesterday to mark the launch of the Clean Air Zone.

The grey plumes were emitted into the air from a viewing platform and roof of the iconic Library of Birmingham, representing the “amount of Nitrox Oxide saved every 10 seconds because of CAZ ”.

The stunt took place in Centenary Square on the day of the Clean Air Zone 's launch.

Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Birmingham City Council Cllr Waseem Zaffar also confirmed at the launch that Birmingham City Council will not be seeking any Clean Air Zone payments for the first two weeks that the zone is in effect.

From the 14 June 2021 the owners of non-compliant vehicles will be required to pay the daily fee (unless a valid exemption is in place).

If they do not pay the daily fee after this date the registered keeper of the vehicle will be issued with a penalty charge notice.

The council says that by adopting this approach, it provides extra time for motorists to get ready, review the support available and to consider the alternatives to driving through the Clean Air Zone

Cllr Zaffar said: “After more than two years of planning, I'm delighted to launch Birmingham's Clean Air Zone.

“This is a bold move that will help to address some significant health inequalities in our city. This is also an important step in encouraging people to re-think how we all move around the city.

“Whilst we have agreed on a two-week soft launch period where people won't have to pay, I would encourage everyone to use this time to check their vehicles, familiarise themselves with the charging process and check out the support that is still available through the Brum Breathes website."