• I AM writing to express my deep concern about the new Islington Council car permit pricing scheme for electric vehicles (EVs).

The recently introduced price banding system unfairly penalises EV owners, with costs rising significantly from £50 in 2022 to a staggering £175 in 2024, for example, for my own electric car.

The council justifies this increase by claiming that larger battery EVs contribute more to pollution through tyre and brake dust emissions. However this reasoning is flawed.

My EV model comes in two battery sizes, yet both utilise the same tyres and brakes. This price hike discourages residents from adopting environ-mentally friendly electric vehicles, hindering Islington’s progress towards cleaner air.

I am not alone in this frustration. I have now launched a petition urging Islington Council to reconsider this policy and reinstate the previous, fairer permit pricing scheme for EVs. See: https://islington.moderngov.co.uk/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?id=44

I have challenged Islington Council to prioritise environmental sustainability and support the growing number of residents choosing EVs where public transport is not a viable option
(for example disabilities/work dependencies).

A fair and transparent permit pricing system is crucial to encourage the switch to electric cars and achieve a cleaner future for Islington.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope my concerns can raise awareness for other residents in my position.

DARIO PICCIRILLO, N4