COMPANIES that use light goods vehicles and minibuses can apply for £4,500 to upgrade each vehicle before Bradford’s Clean Air Zone is introduced.

Bradford Council has received £10,354,500 of funding from the Government to award 2,301 vehicle grants of up to £4,500 per vehicle for eligible companies.

These grants are available to charities, educational establishments, community transport organisations and businesses classed as small or medium sized enterprises, (including self-employed or sole traders), based within the the District.

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The grants are available to:

• Upgrade non-complaint LGVs and minibuses to Clean Air Zone standards

• Purchase a replacement Clean Air Zone compliant vehicle

• Cover the ongoing running costs of a fully electric vehicle (where owned or leased for a minimum of 2 years) - paid in two annual instalments.

For more information about the LGV/Minibus grants and/or to make an application visit here

The grants are available on a first come, first served basis.

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Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Portfolio Holder for Healthy People and Places, said: “These grants are a great opportunity for organisations using LGVs and minibuses to gear up for the Clean Air Zone. If you are thinking of applying, don’t delay, as this fund is likely to receive an enthusiastic response.”

Bradford Council was directed by the Government to implement the CAZ to cut illegal levels of air pollution in areas of the District. Certain categories of vehicles that do not meet clean air standards will be charged for entering the zone.

This will include vans, taxis, lorries, buses and coaches. There will be no charge for private cars.

The zone will include Bradford city centre, from and including the outer ring road, extending up the Canal Road corridor and Manningham Lane into Shipley and Saltaire.