Newcastle air pollution sees 9% drop but CAZ to stay

THERE was a “significant” drop in air pollution in Newcastle last year, according to a new report. New data from Newcastle City Council shows a nine per cent fall in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels in the city’s air from 2023 to 2024.

- DANIEL HOLLAND Local Democracy Reporter

Local authority bosses hailed the results as proof that the Clean Air Zone (CAZ) tolls introduced in January 2023 are having a “positive impact.” Under the CAZ, which was imposed in response to illegal levels of air pollution in certain Tyneside hotspots, some high-polluting vehicles charged daily tolls of up to £50 for driving through the city centre.

Despite the improvement, civic centre officials said that the CAZ would remain in force as there are still two areas where emissions exceed legal limits. The worst spot in the city for air pollution remains close to the Corner House junction on the Coast Road.