THURROCK MP Jackie Doyle-Price has joined the chorus of disapproval against plans by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan to extend the Ultra Low Emission Zone to the borders of the borough.

Transport for London is due to extend the zone across all London boroughs on 29 August and Thurrock residents believe it will have a massively negative impact on the borough, particularly in the north west where it borders Havering.

The scheme means that vehicles that fail to meet stringent emissions standards, will face a charge of £12.50 each time they drive into London– even if it simply to attend a funeral at Corbets Tey.

The plan has already been fiercely debated at Thurrock Council where councillors voted against it – though there were differing views between Conservative and Labour councillors over how the issue should be tackled.

Many Thurrock residents have taken to social media to highlight their opposition.

And today (Monday, 20 February), Ms Doyle-Price entered the fray. Together with East Thurrock MP Stephen Metcalf she has launched a petition calling on Mr Khan to shelve his plans.

She said: "I have been contacted by many constituents who live in Thurrock and work in London. As we are not on the tube network, there simply aren't any public transport alternatives to driving, especially when work is across the river.

"And for many people changing their car simply isn't an affordable option. Especially when this very act by the Mayor has rendered vehicles worthless.

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"When people are working hard to put a roof over their heads and food on the table, the last thing they need is to be landed with a bill for £300 a month.

"Make no mistake, this punitive measure by Labour's Mayor will hit hardest those least able to afford it.

"These charges will be introduced in August. I have made it very clear to him that among those who have made representations to me are people who work in London's hospitals and schools and I have asked him to think again.

"To add your support you can sign the petition at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ULEZ22

"I will do my best to persuade him to think again."