Since 1 January, the City of Ghent wants to keep the most polluting cars out of the center with the LEZ. In itself, these measures currently have little to do with a low-emission zone, but are more of a green cash cow for the Ghent city council.

"The introduction of the LEZ is one of the most effective measures for better air quality and guarantees a healthier living environment for the people of Ghent." According to the ships of Milieu Tine Heyse (Groen).

The new measure does not guarantee a healthier living environment for Ghent residents at all, but a new source of income for the Ghent municipal greenhouse. All diesel cars with Euro standard 5 or higher and cars on petrol, LPG or CNG with Euro standard 2 or higher can enter the city center for free. Anyone who purchases an exemption can continue to drive as before.

City of Ghent itself not ready for LEZ

The Ghent city council has invested 1.4 million euros for cameras and security. On the other hand, the low emission zone in Ghent already yields almost 420.000 euros in exceptions. The low emission zone (LEZ) in Ghent only came into effect from January, but by then had already yielded almost 420.000 euros in exceptions. Anyone who wants to continue driving an excessively polluting car can pay for such a permit.

De Lijn asked for an exception to be allowed to pass through the city with polluting buses, but the city refused. That is why the transport company will now use as many newer buses in the center of Ghent as possible. The polluting driving more in the outskirts of the city. The city wants to send fines for every violation of De Lijn.

City pays 100.000 euros for a permit to itself

The city of Ghent itself says it has removed all diesels with Euro3 standard or older from the fleet, but Euro4 cars remain in possession of the city. These must have been removed by the end of this legislature, but in the meantime the city is paying 100.000 euros in permits to itself. 

The Ghent police have also recently taken action and want to order eight hybrid vehicles. However, the police now have another problem because the electric cars do not have enough range to run a full shift.

Also read: Taxi and mobility will change in Flanders from 1 January