If you’re a driver or business owner impacted by Clean Air Zone (CAZ) charges in Newcastle and Gateshead, there’s good news—funding is still available to help you upgrade to cleaner, more environmentally friendly vehicles.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce air pollution and create a healthier environment for everyone in the region.
Who Can Benefit from CAZ Funding?
The funding is specifically aimed at those who need to replace or upgrade older, more polluting vehicles such as taxis, vans, buses, coaches, and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) that don’t meet the required emissions standards. If your vehicle falls into one of these categories and would be subject to CAZ charges, this grant could help you avoid those costs by transitioning to a compliant vehicle.
Recent Changes to Grant Eligibility
Earlier this year, the eligibility criteria for these grants were updated to include a wider range of businesses. This means that if you own a non-compliant van, light goods vehicle, or minibus, you may now qualify for funding, even if you were previously unsuccessful in your application.
In fact, over 500 applicants who were initially turned down have been invited to reapply under the new criteria. Out of these, more than 100 businesses have successfully reapplied and have already received their grants. This is a great opportunity for those who may have missed out earlier to take advantage of the available support.
How Much Funding is Available?
Since the launch of the grant scheme, a total of £3.5 million has been distributed to businesses and drivers across the region. This funding has been instrumental in helping them upgrade their vehicles, ensuring they meet the required emissions standards and are not subject to CAZ charges.
Hundreds of other applications have also been approved, and if you are one of these applicants, it’s important to contact the scheme’s financial providers as soon as possible to complete the process and secure your funding.
Important Reminders for Applicants
To ensure compliance with financial auditing requirements, it’s crucial to note that funding cannot be provided if the sale or purchase of a vehicle was completed using cash. This is an important detail to keep in mind as you navigate the application process.
Why Was the Clean Air Zone Introduced?
The Newcastle and Gateshead Clean Air Zone was established following a legal direction from the government, mandating action to tackle illegal levels of air pollution in certain areas. The CAZ is part of a broader effort to improve air quality and protect public health, targeting vehicles that contribute the most to pollution.
It’s important to remember that the CAZ charges only apply to non-compliant taxis, vans, buses, coaches, and HGVs. Privately owned cars are not affected by these charges, so individual car owners do not need to worry about compliance.
How to Apply for CAZ Grants
Applying for a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) vehicle upgrade grant in Newcastle and Gateshead is a straightforward process designed to help you secure funding for upgrading or replacing non-compliant vehicles. Follow the steps below to get started:
1. Check Vehicle Compliance
Before applying, determine whether your vehicle is non-compliant by using the government’s online vehicle checker.
2. Review Eligibility Criteria
Ensure that your vehicle and business meet the eligibility criteria for the grant. Recent changes to the scheme have expanded eligibility, particularly for vans, light goods vehicles (LGVs), and minibuses registered in Newcastle, Gateshead, or North Tyneside. Vehicles registered elsewhere in Tyne and Wear, Northumberland, or County Durham are also eligible under specific conditions.
- Ineligible Vehicles: Grants are not available for vehicles that are already compliant with emissions standards, private cars, low emission vehicles, motorbikes, leisure vehicles (like motorhomes and horseboxes), or vehicles permanently exempt from CAZ charges.
3. Complete the Application Form
Visit the grants information page to access the application form. Fill out all required fields with accurate information to avoid delays in processing.
4. Submit Your Application
After completing the form, submit your application for an initial eligibility check. This review ensures you meet the requirements for funding.
5. Receive an Approval Letter
If your application is successful, you’ll receive an approval letter confirming your eligibility. This letter will include:
- Details on the next steps.
- Contact information for the financial providers managing the grant.
- Confirmation of a 90-day exemption from CAZ charges, allowing you time to arrange for a compliant vehicle.
6. Arrange Financing and Vehicle Purchase
Contact the designated financial providers to discuss financing options and finalize the purchase of your new vehicle. Be sure to avoid cash transactions, as grants cannot be issued if the vehicle sale or purchase was made using cash.
7. Sign the Grant Agreement
Before funds are released, you’ll need to sign a Grant Agreement—a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of the grant.
8. Extend Exemption if Necessary
If your exemption period is nearing its end and your replacement vehicle is not yet available, you can apply for an extension. This requires proof that the vehicle has been ordered.
9. If Your Application is Unsuccessful
In the event your application is not approved, you will receive guidance on the appeals process, including how to challenge the decision if necessary.
By following these steps, you can secure the funding needed to upgrade your vehicle, ensuring compliance with Clean Air Zone regulations while contributing to a healthier environment for everyone in Newcastle and Gateshead.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to upgrade your vehicle with financial support from the CAZ scheme. Together, we can work towards cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone in Newcastle and Gateshead.