RESIDENTS can now have their say on plans to introduce a chargeable clean air zone in Southampton, a move which has received criticism from local businesses, including the port.

As part of a 12-week consultation, locals will be asked on their views to bill commercial vehicles – including busses, coaches, and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) – up to £100 a day to enter the city.

The proposals also suggests that cabbies be charged £12.50 a day – something taxi bosses have slammed, adding it could “kill the trade overnight”.

But, as reported, civic chiefs say their is a need for the zone, as Southampton is one of five cities in the UK under pressure from Westminster to improve its air quality by 2020 – or face a massive EU fine.

The city needs to reduce its nitrogen dioxide level to below 40 micrograms per cubic air metre. It is currently 42 micrograms.

Experts say more than 100 deaths a year in Southampton are attributed to long-term exposure to air pollution.

It is also said that air pollution has the same equivalent impact as passive smoking, affecting the most vulnerable residents, including those with asthma.

Cash collected by the council will be used to fund clean air initiatives in the city, including electric vehicles charging points.

Large goods vehicles (LGVs) – such as vans – and cars will be exempt from the charges.

Council leader Chris Hammond, said the charge will be similar to London’s congestion zone, with non-Euro 6 commercial vehicles being charged.

He added: “It is the right thing to do.”

Nevertheless, despite criticism, green campaigners including Clean Air Southampton’s Liz Batten have welcomes the move, and labelled it as a “first step” and the “beginning of Southampton’s clean air journey”.

Ms Batten even suggested a full diesel ban in the city could be the next step.

Another supporter, Dr Hugh Davis, a professor at Southampton University, thinks even more measures are needed.

He said: “Nearly all HGV traffic that comes into the city is Euro 6 compliant anyway and we believe that most taxis are becoming that way too.

“So I think this proposed clean air zone isn’t going to do very much.

“My view is we need more measures. This, in its current state, is not going to clean up anything.”

The start of the consultation also comes as Southampton MP Alan Whitehead quizzed Prime Minister Theresa May on the country’s clean air plans.

Dr Whitehead asked the PM if the government will introduce a target to deliver net zero emissions across the UK by 2050.

But, responding to Labour’s Shadow Energy and Clean Growth Minister, Mrs May said the country was already “leading the way in relation to dealing with the issue of climate change” but refused to be drawn on whether a new target was imminent.

The 12-week consultation begins today (June 21), coinciding with the city’s Clean Air Day.

The take part, click here.

Lyn Brayshaw, Southampton Friends of the Earth co-ordinator said: “Southampton council is right to act on air pollution – but this plan doesn’t go far enough.

“Poor air quality is a huge problem in the Southampton and New Forest area, with elderly people and children particularly at risk. 

“Tougher measures are needed – such as restricting the most polluting vehicles, including cars.”

Brenda Pollack, Friends of the Earth South East Campaigner added:

“Dirty air causes around 200 early deaths a year in Southampton and the New Forest.

“A really strong Clean Air Zone is urgently needed to cut pollution and allow local people to breathe more easily.”