Newcastle City Council has revealed that more than £10 million in Clean Air Zone (CAZ) grants remain unclaimed. These funds, originally set aside to help vehicle owners upgrade to cleaner models, have yet to be fully utilized.
Launched in November 2022, the £15 million scheme was designed to support those affected by CAZ tolls. However, as of now:
- Only 1,141 grants worth £4.7 million have been paid out.
- 4,030 applications were received, but many remain unclaimed or rejected.
- An additional 608 applications worth £3.9 million have been approved but not claimed.
With millions still available, eligible motorists are being urged to apply before funds run out.
What is the Newcastle Clean Air Zone (CAZ)?
The Clean Air Zone was introduced in January 2023 to reduce pollution and improve air quality in Newcastle. It affects older, high-emission vehicles, including:
- Taxis
- Buses & Coaches
- Lorries & Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)
Vehicles that do not meet emissions standards are subject to daily charges ranging from £12.50 to £50.
The zone covers most of Newcastle city centre, including major bridges:
- Tyne Bridge
- Swing Bridge
- High Level Bridge
- Redheugh Bridge
How Much Money is Still Available?
A significant portion of the original £15 million funding remains unused:
| Total CAZ Fund | £15 million |
|---|---|
| Paid Out Grants | £4.7 million |
| Approved but Unclaimed | £3.9 million |
| Remaining Funds | £10 million+ |
Motorists and businesses that qualify for CAZ funding can still apply for grants up to £16,000 to help upgrade their vehicles.
Who Can Apply for CAZ Grants?
To qualify for CAZ upgrade funding, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Eligible Applicants
- Owners of vans, light goods vehicles (LGVs), or minibuses that do not meet emissions standards.
- Vehicles registered to a home or business address in Newcastle, Gateshead, or North Tyneside.
- Businesses and individuals who regularly enter the CAZ area.
Who is NOT Automatically Eligible?
- Vehicles registered in Northumberland, South Tyneside, and other surrounding areas.
- Businesses that do not frequently enter the CAZ.
Note: The original requirement to prove CAZ entry at least twice a week for three months was relaxed in 2024, making it easier for more vehicle owners to qualify.
How to Apply for CAZ Grants
Eligible motorists can apply for funding through Newcastle City Council. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check Eligibility – Ensure your vehicle and location meet the CAZ funding criteria.
- Gather Required Documents – Provide vehicle registration details and proof of business/home address.
- Submit Application – Apply through the official Newcastle City Council website.
- Wait for Approval – If eligible, you’ll receive confirmation and grant details.
- Claim Your Funding – Once approved, ensure you claim your allocated grant before funds expire.
Has the Clean Air Zone Improved Air Quality?
Since the introduction of CAZ in January 2023, Newcastle City Council reports:
- Reduced pollution levels in central Newcastle.
- Increased compliance with emission standards among vehicle owners.
- No planned changes to CAZ rules despite previous business criticisms.
FAQs
Why are £10M of CAZ grants still unclaimed?
Many applicants have not finalized their claims, and some businesses remain unaware of relaxed eligibility rules.
Can I still apply for Clean Air Zone grants?
Yes, if you own a non-compliant vehicle and are registered in Newcastle, Gateshead, or North Tyneside, you can still apply for funding.
What vehicles qualify for funding?
Vans, light goods vehicles (LGVs), minibuses, and other older high-emission vehicles may qualify for upgrade grants.
How much financial help is available?
Grants up to £16,000 are available to eligible applicants to upgrade or replace non-compliant vehicles.
What areas are covered by Newcastle’s Clean Air Zone?
Most of Newcastle city centre, including the Tyne, Swing, High Level, and Redheugh bridges, falls within the CAZ zone.
Has the CAZ been successful?
According to Newcastle City Council, air quality has improved since CAZ was introduced, and no changes to its rules are planned.
Are businesses outside Newcastle eligible for funding?
No, only vehicles registered in Newcastle, Gateshead, or North Tyneside qualify for automatic CAZ funding.
How do I check if my vehicle is affected?
Visit the Newcastle City Council website or enter your vehicle details into the official CAZ checker to see if charges apply.
Conclusion
With over £10M in Clean Air Zone grants still unclaimed, Newcastle City Council is urging eligible vehicle owners to apply before funds run out. The rules have been relaxed, making it easier than ever to qualify for funding.
For those affected by CAZ charges, this grant offers a valuable opportunity to upgrade to a cleaner, compliant vehicle with financial support.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply today and claim your share of the remaining £10M before it’s too late.
Click here to know more.
A passionate content writer specializing in creating engaging, SEO-optimized content. With expertise in blogs, web copy, and storytelling, I craft words that connect with audiences and deliver results.