Taxi age limit cut to improve air quality in London

The age limit of black cabs in London is to be cut from 15 to 12 years to reduce toxic emissions.

Transport for London today confirmed that older, more-polluting vehicles would not be licensed, with rules toughening from next year until 2022.

It emerged that cabbies have so far claimed £30 million from a £42 million subsidy scheme set up by Mayor Sadiq Khan to encourage a switch to “zero emission-capable” cabs.

Mr Khan also abandoned plans to ban taxis from Duke Street Hill and Tooley Street.

Alex Williams, TfL’s Director of City Planning, said: “The air quality crisis means it is imperative to reduce the age limit for taxis.”