West London unwraps Boris Johnson's C-charge 'Christmas present'

Boris Johnson today said the abolition of the western extension of the C-charge zone was his "Christmas present" for west Londoners.

Motorists will also be able to drive into central London without charge until Monday, January 3 as the scheme is suspended over Christmas and New Year.

The C-charge will then revert to its original boundaries and the daily charge will go up from £8 to £10.

The removal of the extension follows a public consultation, promised by the Mayor in his election manifesto, that saw 62 per cent of residents back its removal.

Critics claim the move will worsen congestion and pollution and leave Transport for London up to £55 million worse off.

The Mayor, heralding the end of the extension with shoppers at Westfield, said: "The long desired eradication of the western extension is my Christmas present to the people who live, work and shop in west London."

Labour's Val Shawcross, Ken Livingstone's 2012 running mate, said: "Whether it's through huge fares, more congestion or dirtier air, we'll all pay for this poor decision."

Motorists can sign up to an auto-pay scheme from next month which will cut the charge to £9. But paying a day late will cost £12.

The original central zone was introduced in 2003 and extended westwards four years later.