IPPR calls for green badge scheme

The Government should set up a ‘green badge scheme’ to encourage the use of ultra low emission vehicles, according to a forthcoming report by think tank IPPR.

The report suggests that the scheme should mirror the current blue badge scheme for disabled drivers run by local authorities, and provide benefits for drivers.

The report argues that EVs drivers should receive a range of advantages, including free parking in public car parks, as well the right to park in double red or yellow line areas. The IPPR recommends that local authorities finance these privileges using parking fees charged to drivers of traditional vehicles.

The report also argues that badge holders should be exempt from any city congestion charges, and should also be allowed to use toll roads, such as the M6 Toll and the Severn Bridge, without charge. Will Straw, IPPR associate director, said: “Although early days, Britain is currently behind other European countries in terms of the take up of electric cars and other ultra low emission vehicles. A ‘green badge’ scheme would give a boost to the industry and supporting other government policies like
the ‘plug-in’ grant.”

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