Aberdeen LEZ: Nearby towns get high street footfall boost as road restrictions come into force

Low Emission Zones (LEZ) are in force across Scotland’s four largest cities which supporters say make them attractive and healthier places to live, work and visit.

The restrictions, designed to lower emissions and increase active travel, came into force in Aberdeen in June 2024.

But businesses in surrounding towns, without traffic restrictions, say they’re benefiting from a boost in footfall as more shoppers travel out of the city for their retail needs.

The historic market town of Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, about a 35 minute drive from Aberdeen’s centre, has all but two of its shop units full, more than half of which are held by independent businesses.

Derek Ritchie, manager of the area’s Business Improvement District Team, said: “It is sad to see what is happening in big cities but yes, we’ve benefited from it.”

“I’ve noticed we’re getting more visitors from Aberdeen and from south of the city.

'Footfall increases' in surrounding areas of Aberdeen — ‘Footfall increases’ in surrounding areas of Aberdeen STV News

“Furthermore, every second week people get in touch and want to put their businesses here; I believe we have the highest retail occupancy in the whole of Scotland.”

Just a stone’s throw away from Inverurie’s Town Hall is Aleca Hardy’s clothing boutique.

She’s one of the town’s independent retailers and set up her business four years ago following the pandemic and has been busy ever since.

Mrs Hardy added: “Here it’s easy to park and easy to get around.

“Once you’re here people go around and make a day of it, go for lunch, it’s all about the whole experience – we have a broad range of things.”

Florist says high street has 'really changed' since LEZ came into force — Florist says high street has ‘really changed’ since LEZ came into force STV News

Back in Aberdeen, some businesses have had to rethink their operations.

Flower Vogue has traded in the city for more than 30 years.

Its owner Kirsty ran two shops, one in the city’s Schoolhill, right in the heart of Aberdeen, and another in the west end.

The former has recently closed because of traffic restrictions in the city. She said the LEZ was the final straw.

She said: “The shop in Schoolhill was great, it was a very busy flower shop and I loved it, but it became difficult once the road became pedestrianised, and then the LEZ didn’t help. The street has really changed.

“Even people who come here (on the edge of the LEZ) ask daily about where they should park and where they’re allowed, there’s lots of confusion with people getting around the city centre.”

Aberdeen's Low Emission Zone came into force in June — Aberdeen’s Low Emission Zone came into force in June STV News

The challenges Aberdeen faces are not unique to Scotland, changes in shopping habits, an increase in working from home and the pandemic have mounted up the pressures.

Aberdeen’s City Council says it’s working hard to address the issues the city faces and said fines generated from the LEZ would be reinvested.

A spokesperson for the local authority said: “The council is dedicated to fostering an attractive environment for residents and visitors alike, encouraging footfall and supporting the local economy, demonstrated by the £150m investment in projects within the city centre including construction of the new market building.

“Despite the challenging operating environment, Aberdeen City Council remains committed to a balanced transport network that prioritises sustainable and efficient travel, ensuring the city’s growth and development for years to come.”