The government has backed Greater Manchester's innovative clean air strategy, approving an £86 million investment package that will aim to improve air quality without imposing additional charges on drivers.

Under the new plan, 117 new lower and zero-emission buses will be introduced, alongside targeted traffic management measures and support for transitioning taxi fleets to cleaner vehicles.

This approach differs from other regions that have implemented Clean Air Zones with motorist charges.

The investment breaks down to £51.1 million for bus infrastructure, including 40 zero-emission and 77 Euro VI standard buses, £5 million for local traffic management, £8 million to support taxi fleet upgrades, and £21.9 million for administration and monitoring.

Air Quality Minister Emma Hardy emphasised the importance of localised solutions and said: "Air pollution is damaging people's health and the environment. Its impacts are felt more by low-income communities, making health and social inequalities worse."

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham welcomed the decision, describing it as "the right decision for Greater Manchester" and praising the Government's confidence in the region's approach.

The investment aligns with the UK's legally binding target to reduce nitrogen dioxide concentrations to an annual average of no more than 40 micrograms per cubic metre.

By choosing an investment-led strategy, Greater Manchester will address air quality challenges without penalising drivers.

The package builds on the success of the Bee Network, Manchester's integrated public transport initiative and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable urban development.

Minister for the Future of Roads Lilian Greenwood highlighted the broader vision, noting that Manchester will "reduce pollution from transport without having to charge motorists, and new, cleaner buses will help Mancunians get around easily while still bringing down emissions".