The move from Sheffield city council to scrap their clean air financial assistance scheme has been met with backlash.

The scheme was first introduced in December 2022 to support drivers of LGVs, HGVs, taxis, coaches and buses. It aimed to either upgrade the vehicles or replace them entirely so the drivers would not be charged the clean air zone fines.

Councillor Ben Miskell, chair of the transport, regeneration and climate policy committee said: “We all have a responsibility to change, to protect the environment around us and take us that step closer to cleaner air and healthier lives for local people.”

In total the council has paid out £6.9 million for upgrades to vehicles and they have replaced an additional 1754 cars. However, the council said in a press release that the scheme was never meant to be permanent.

Cllr Miskell said: “Moving forward we will be focusing remaining funding on priority areas.”

This includes the focus on upgrading to electric buses.

However, the decision to stop the support scheme has caused concern.

Aaron Bailey, 20, Doncaster, said that he frequently visits Sheffield and worries that in the future he might be next to be fined. He said: “It puts more strain on young people trying to drive, they already have to pay insurance and road tax.”

Mr Bailey also expressed concerns for local businesses, stressing that “it makes it harder for them to survive.”

Ryan Weatheritt , 19, of Endcliffe, said: “The impact on air quality will be minimal compared to the inconvenience for people.”

The air quality within the city centre has improved by 16%.

Mr Weatheritt said: “If the fines were small it would make sense but anything like London where its £12.50 a day and covers a large area, is a bad idea.” Under the Sheffield clean air zone, small vehicles are charged £10 a day whereas large vehicles are charged £30 a day.

Liz Dew, from Sheffield, said: “It is generally a good idea reducing traffic in the city centre, it is much nicer for pedestrians,” however she shared the same sentiment of worry that she will soon have to pay the fines as well.

Applications for the scheme remain open until May 31st 2025.