Question reference: S5W-31745
- Asked by: Colin Smyth, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 10 September 2020
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 24 September 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it still aims to have zero or ultra-low emission city centres by 2030.
Answer
Scottish Ministers are steadfastly committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the economy. In light of the COVID pandemic the focus on emissions in cities shifted from consultation to delivery of the £39 million Spaces for People Programme, and in the Programme for Government we have committed to working with local government to take forward ambitions for 20 minute neighbourhoods where people can live, work and learn in communities close to home. We will take forward engagement on city centre emission reduction with stakeholders in this context.
We also remain committed to introducing Low Emission Zones in order to improve air quality and protect public health. In light of the COVID pandemic, the new indicative timeline is for Low Emission Zones to be introduced into Scotland's four biggest cities between February and May 2022.