GMB, Britain’s General Union, which represents thousands of hackney and private hire drivers across the UK, has today welcomed the decision by Sheffield City Council to revisit its plans for the proposed Clean Air Zone, in light of Covid-19 and the impact on businesses, transport and air quality.

In this unprecedented time of Covid-19, which has had a major impact on livelihoods, GMB members in the taxi trade in Sheffield and the surrounding areas look forward to working with Sheffield City Council to look at alternatives to charging drivers.

Commenting, GMB Organiser, Bob McNeill, said:

"Our members welcome this decision as charging taxi drivers would put further pressure on their livelihoods and risk fare increases for the public.

“We fully understanding and appreciate the importance of continuing to improve the air quality in our city.

“GMB will work with the council to explore alternatives so that our communities, particularly in the most deprived areas, have the opportunity for cleaner air and a better quality of life.”