ULEZ: Classic car show cancelled - organisers blame TfL pollution charge expansion

A classic car show that has run for more than 40 years has been cancelled, with organisers blaming the expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

The Bromley Pageant of Motoring is an event for motoring enthusiasts, as well as a community day out. It was due to return this summer but organisers say "Norman Park is no longer an option".

Sadiq Khan expanded the ULEZ to cover almost the whole of Greater London from August 2023, including Bromley, meaning drivers of older, polluting vehicles pay a charge. A spokesperson for the mayor said that most classic cars are exempt from the ULEZ charge, which "strikes a balance between allowing rallies to continue and cleaning up London’s toxic air".

Pageant organisers say they hope to bring the event back in 2025.

Organisers Pippa and Jason, of A-ME Event Management, posted on Facebook: "Following the introduction of the ULEZ zone across Greater London, we have taken considerable time to evaluate all options for the future of the Bromley Pageant of Motoring, including whether it would be viable to still hold the Pageant at Norman Park, Bromley.

"It became clear that Norman Park is no longer an option and any move to a new venue and date needs to ensure that this firm favourite of the classic car calendar has a bright future. We have made the very difficult decision to not hold the event in 2024 but are working on plans to bring back the Bromley Pageant of Motoring in 2025.

"We appreciate the support we have received from car owners, clubs, trade and visitors over the time we have had the honour of looking after the pageant and we are as disappointed as you that it will not take place this year. We do look forward to what the future will hold for this wonderful event, and we hope to bring you further details later in the year."

Bromley Pageant of Motoring usually features rare and unusual cars, car clubs, a trade area, autojumble, and live action arena including The Tigers Motorcycle Display Team, together with a funfair and inflatables.

A spokesperson for the mayor of London said: “The majority of classic cars are exempt from the ULEZ charge. This strikes a balance between allowing rallies to continue and cleaning up London’s toxic air.

“The mayor has been clear that the decision to expand the ULEZ London-wide was not an easy one, but necessary to tackle toxic air pollution and the climate crisis. Around 4000 Londoners die prematurely each year due to air pollution, children are growing up with stunted lungs and thousands of people in our city are developing life-changing illnesses, such as cancer, lung disease, dementia and asthma.

“95% of all vehicles seen driving across London on an average day now meet clean air standards and do not need to pay.”