Residents in Greater London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) hotspots have voiced their outrage over Sadiq Khan’s recent knighthood, calling it a slap in the face to hardworking Londoners who have been financially burdened by his policies.
The Labour mayor, now formally known as Sir Sadiq Khan, was honoured for his “political and public service” in this year’s honours list, to the delight of his party supporters. Khan, who is the longest-serving Mayor of London—albeit the city has only had three—expressed his gratitude, describing the knighthood as “the honour of my life to serve the city I love.”
However, outside the celebratory circles of central London, residents in suburban areas impacted by Ulez expansion are far from pleased. For many, the accolade feels undeserved, given the widespread criticism of Khan’s policies, particularly the controversial expansion of the Ulez to cover Greater London.
Suburban backlash
Richard Trenholme, 76, a resident of Worcester Park on the Ulez border, didn’t mince his words. “Don’t get me started on Sadiq Khan,” he said. “I can’t describe the words I feel for that man. He’s a total disaster. The honours list used to mean something—it was for people who had done heroic things. Now they just sling these knighthoods around to all and sundry.”
For many suburban drivers, the Ulez expansion has been a financial nightmare. Those who own older, non-compliant vehicles face daily charges of £12.50 or are forced to spend thousands on replacing their cars to meet emission standards. Critics argue the policy disproportionately impacts working-class Londoners who rely on their vehicles for commuting and essential trips.
A local tradesman, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the situation as “financially crippling.” He added, “It’s not just the charges—it’s the cost of buying a compliant vehicle. I had to take out a loan to replace my van. Meanwhile, they’re handing out knighthoods like party favours.”
A divisive legacy
Khan’s tenure as mayor has been marked by both praise and criticism. Supporters highlight his commitment to tackling climate change, improving air quality, and expanding public transport options. However, detractors point to rising knife crime, a dwindling nightlife economy, and the controversial Ulez expansion as significant failures.
Critics argue that the Ulez policy disproportionately penalises those in suburban areas where public transport links are less reliable. The expansion, which came into effect in August 2023, now covers all 32 London boroughs, pushing many families and small businesses to the financial brink.
Local resident Sarah Whitmore, 42, from Enfield, described Khan’s knighthood as “a joke.” She said, “He’s done nothing to make life better for ordinary Londoners. Knife crime is through the roof, the roads are clogged, and now he’s penalising us for driving to work. How is that deserving of a knighthood?”
The Ulez debate
While the Ultra Low Emission Zone aims to improve air quality and reduce pollution-related illnesses, its expansion has sparked fierce debate. Proponents argue it is a necessary step toward making London greener and healthier. Detractors, however, accuse Khan of using it as a cash grab that unfairly targets those who can least afford it.
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The scheme charges drivers of vehicles that fail to meet emissions standards, with fines for non-payment quickly escalating. For suburban families, tradespeople, and small businesses, the costs are mounting. Critics also question the timing of the policy during a cost-of-living crisis, with inflation and rising energy bills already straining household budgets.
A divided capital
As the dust settles on Sadiq Khan’s knighthood announcement, it is clear that his legacy remains deeply polarising. While central London’s political and environmental circles celebrate his achievements, suburban residents feel neglected and unfairly targeted.
For many, the question remains: is a greener city worth the cost to its people? As Richard Trenholme aptly put it, “Londoners need a mayor who works for everyone, not just for headlines and honours.”
Whether Sir Sadiq Khan’s knighthood will stand as a mark of distinction or deepen divisions among Londoners remains to be seen. But for those living in the Ulez hotspots, the frustrations are far from over.
