Polluting vehicles to be outlawed on nine streets in Bunhill and Shoreditch

Most polluted: Central Foundation Boys’ School on Cowper Street. Photograph: Jwslubbock / WikiCommons

Petrol and diesel cars are to be barred in parts of Islington from July when the Town Hall unveils the UK’s first ever ultra low emission streets.

Only electric vehicles, the newest hybrids, bicycles and pedestrians will be able to use nine roads in Bunhill and Shoreditch during rush hours on weekday mornings and evenings.

Residents and businesses on the affected streets will still be able to use their cars.

The scheme, which is the result of a partnership between Islington and Hackney councils, was supported by 70 per cent of people living within 10 kilometres of the area when it was proposed.

The ban will cover Cowper Street, which is home to Central Foundation Boys’ School – the most polluted state secondary in London.

Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Transport Cllr Claudia Webbe

Town Hall transport chief Cllr Claudia Webbe said: “Air pollution is a huge issue for Islington residents living, working and learning in the City Fringe, and we are proud to be leading from the front with Hackney in this pioneering scheme – the first of its kind in the UK.

“This is big news for students and staff at Central Foundation Boys School and the positive public feedback shows we are right to keep pushing for new ways to improve air quality and prevent polluting vehicles from damaging people’s health. I look forward to the results.”

The affected streets in Islington are Cowper Street, Singer Street (west side) and Tabernacle Street (between Leonard Street and Cowper Street).

In Hackney, Rivington Street (between Great Eastern Street and Curtain Road), Charlotte Road, Blackall Street, Willow Street and Paul Street (north of Leonard Street) are all covered.

Petrol, diesel and older hybrid vehicles will not be allowed to use the roads from 7am-10am and 4pm-7pm on weekdays.

The scheme is part-funded by the Office For Low Emission Vehicles and forms part of the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s drive for better air quality.