The High Court has granted permission for a judicial review into the proposed expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to outer London this summer.

A legal challenge was launched in February by Bexley, Bromley, Hillingdon and Harrow LBCs, along with Surrey CC.

The hearing is likely to take place in July.

Bexley leader Baroness O'Neill of Bexley said: ‘The residents of Bexley gave us a clear mandate to oppose Mayor Khan's proposal to expand the ULEZ.

‘It was never about air quality and we believe it would have disastrous consequences for many of our residents and businesses, as well as others who regularly travel into the borough.

'We hope that today's decision moves us a step closer to stopping the Mayor's money-making scheme.'

Surrey leader Tim Oliver said: ‘The impact on Surrey's residents and businesses has been ignored by the Mayor and it's frankly disgraceful that it's taken legal proceedings to have our voices heard.'

A spokesperson for Mayor Khan said: ‘We will continue to robustly defend his life-saving decision to expand the ULEZ and continue with preparations without delay.

‘It is a shame that some local authorities have chosen to attempt this costly and misguided legal challenge instead of focusing on the health of those they represent.

‘Around 4,000 Londoners die prematurely every year due to air pollution.

'This is a health emergency and the Mayor is not prepared to stand by and do nothing while Londoners are growing up with stunted lungs, and are more at risk of heart disease, cancer and dementia due to our toxic air.'

Vehicles entering the ULEZ area pay a daily charge if they do not meet emissions requirements.

It has been estimated that more than 90% of vehicles in London are exempt.

This article was originally published by our sister website Transport Network.