Bus operators within the city are marking the success of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) going into its second year, as the number of city centre bus journeys complying with emission standards increase. 

Forty per cent of journeys going through the zone will now be made by busses that meet the required emission standard - a 20% increase from last year. The boost comes after significant investment by operators into their fleets. 

First Glasgow, Stagecoach West Scotland and West Coast Motors are the three main providers to have met the significant changes.

READ MORE: Glasgow's low emission zone praised for 'real changes' in first year

  Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director for First Glasgow, said:

“We are delighted to have met the challenge of getting our fleet 40% compliant ahead of the Hogmanay deadline this year."

"This is an achievement that has taken a significant amount of investment from operators to reach and the requirement will only increase as we enter the next phase."

Councillor Anna Richardson, Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction has hailed the LEZ success, she said: 

“I’m delighted that the bus operators have reached this low emission milestone as part of the phased introduction of Glasgow’s LEZ. It’s a testament to their commitment to improving air quality and providing an improved experience for passengers that they have made such a substantial investment in their fleet." 

"The council has worked very closely with bus operators to phase in the LEZ and we’ll continue to work in partnership to improve services that are vital to the lives of Glaswegians.”

By the end of 2022, 100% of buses travelling through Glasgow city centre are expected to meet LEZ emission standards, at which time the LEZ will broaden in scope and become applicable to all other vehicle types.