The controversial Clean Air Zone initiative has been paused for the majority of commercial vehicles in Greater Manchester.

Due to launch in May, plans for the Clean Air Zone have caused stir since their conception, and today’s decision will be welcomed by many.

The charge was not due to apply to private cars, mopeds or motorbikes, but for larger vehicles, such as vans or pickups, and commercial vehicles, such as taxis and private hire vehicles.

Cllr Martyn Cox was present at the meeting of the GMCA this afternoon.

He said: “The implementation of the Clean Air Zone has been paused for lighter goods vehicles and taxis, with the exception of heavy good vehicles, buses and out of town taxis.

"We are happy with that they have taken this action but would have like it to have gone further and for the Secretary of State to pause it.

“The Combined Authority want to now sit down with the government to discuss the issues.”