It is ‘far too early’ to know how much a possible Clean Air Zone initiative may cost drivers in Epping Forest, a councillor has said.

The council is considering introducing a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in 2025 as part of a series of measures to protect Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation.

The proposals have been met with public backlash; a Facebook group called 'Say no to EFDC - CAZ - (Clean Air Zone)' has already amassed almost 3,000 members.

Epping Forest councillor Nigel Bedford has moved to quash claims the proposed ULEZ style environmental policy for motorists in the district will replicate the charging scheme seen in central London.

The planning and sustainability portfolio holder said: “Many people are alarmed by reference to a £12.50 charge for driving through the forest. I want to reassure you. No such figure has been proposed.

“People are charged this to drive through central London but we are far too early in the process to have any firm idea on what a charging schedule would look like. I can also assure you that no charge would be introduced without full and open consultation first.”

Read More: Drivers may have to pay to use Epping Forest roads

In 2005 Epping Forest was declared as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), giving protection its Beech tree population, believed to be the oldest in the world, and also protection to its population of Stag Beetle and various other Lichen and plants.

As a result, developments and projects can only be permitted by the council where it can show there will be no damage to the environment.

Council documents reveal if the council does not demonstrate a pro-active approach to protecting air quality there is a risk it will be unable to adopt the Local Plan.

Cllr Bedford added: “Since June 2018 as a result of advice from Natural England this has meant that the council has not been able to issue planning permissions for new development in the district.

The council has been working with Natural England (the statutory body set up by the Government to protect the Natural Environment) to identify the mitigation strategy to address the impact of development on the forest in respect of both air pollution and recreational pressure. In respect of recreational pressure the council’s cabinet adopted an interim mitigation strategy in October 2018.

“Until now with respect to air pollution there has been no such agreed approach. This has resulted in a total of around 200 applications put on hold and approximately 400 homes awaiting decisions.”

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