As the festive Christmas season approaches, it is essential for drivers in London to be aware of changes to the city’s road and emission zone rules.
Transport for London (TfL) has announced key updates that will impact those driving in the capital between Wednesday, 25 December 2024, and Thursday, 2 January 2025.
London Congestion Charge
The Congestion Charge will be suspended from Christmas Day (25 December) to New Year’s Day (1 January 2025), resuming on Thursday, 2 January.
This will give drivers a temporary reprieve from the usual 15 GBP daily charge that applies in Central London 7:00-18:00 Monday-Friday and 12:00-18:00 on weekends and bank holidays.
Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)
The ULEZ will operate as usual throughout the festive season, helping to reduce harmful vehicle emissions and improve air quality in the city.
However, the ULEZ charge will not apply on Christmas Day (25 December). Drivers of non-compliant vehicles will need to pay the daily charge on all other days, including Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve.
The ULEZ covers all areas within the North and South Circular Roads and operates 24/7. Vehicles that do not meet the required emissions standards must pay a daily charge of 12.50 GBP for cars, motorcycles, and vans or 100 GBP for larger vehicles like lorries and coaches.
Low Emission Zone (LEZ)
The LEZ, which covers most of Greater London, will continue to operate as usual, including on Christmas Day. This zone focuses on reducing emissions from heavier diesel vehicles, such as lorries, buses, and coaches.
Travel Advice
Drivers should also plan for road closures, particularly on New Year’s Eve, when central London streets will be closed to accommodate the Mayor’s fireworks display. Some bridges and nearby areas will also be restricted to manage crowds and ensure safety.
Drivers are being advised to use TfL’s Journey Planner or TfL Go app to find alternative routes and avoid congestion.
What’s more, with many taking to the roads to visit family, friends, or festive events, TfL encourages all drivers to plan ahead and travel safely. If possible, consider using public transport, which operates additional services on New Year’s Eve to make getting around the city easier.
Claire Mann, TfL’s Chief Operating Officer said:This festive period, we are once again excited to help Londoners and visitors experience all the entertainment, culture, bars, and restaurants and shops that the capital has to offer. TfL's services are the best way to easily and safely get around the city.
The majority of the transport network will continue to operate over the festive period, ensuring that all customers can travel across London in affordable and green ways. We ask that customers check before they travel as planned works are taking place.
