The government says transport bosses must return the money
Greater Manchester must return £22.5 million to the government after canceling its Clean Air Zone due to public opposition in 2022. The government has approved alternative plans, allocating £51 million for cleaner buses, £5 million for traffic measures, £8 million for taxis, and £21.9 million for administration. Originally, £210.9 million was allocated, with £104.5 million spent by November last year. Some funds remain unaccounted for, and Defra is redirecting the £22.5 million to other air quality initiatives. The revised plan, approved in January 2024, focuses on reducing emissions without charging motorists, with officials discussing the return of unused funds. The government supports these measures to enhance air quality and public health.
