Solihull-based LandFlight has purchased a new Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 MMC bus worth around £175,000, which meets the Euro 6 emission standards required for the proposed CAZ in Solihull and Birmingham.

A CAZ is an area which has implemented measures to improve air quality, which will apply to every vehicle on the road and will also include Solihull. LandFlight director Danny Matthews said the investment represents the company’s efforts to reduce air pollution and highlights its commitment to growth and innovation in line with the latest emission standards.

He said: “We’re proud to be growing our fleet and to be helping make the West Midlands and Birmingham more environmentally friendly in support of the CAZ. It means major investment will need to be made on our side, which we’re prepared for and have started putting in place.”

The proposed Birmingham CAZ would likely encompass the middle ring road (A4540) and impose strict emissions levels for any vehicle entering the area. While the exact details are yet to be confirmed, it is possible that a London-style congestion charge will be put in place, meaning vehicles not meeting the Euro 6 emission standards will have to pay to use the roads.

Danny Matthews added: “I think the proposals offer the private hire industry a good opportunity to improve its image and customer experience. Modern, less polluting vehicles are undoubtedly better for everyone’s health. We’d advise all motorists who drive in Birmingham to make sure they’re up to speed with the proposed changes and what it will mean to them.”