Controversial plans to expand the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) have faced stiff opposition from members of the county council.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan wants to stretch ULEZ into parts of Greater London, such as Bexley and Bromley, which have historically been within Kent.

Kent County Council believes the new boundaries will “disproportionately” impact on low-paid key workers who cannot afford to buy new compliant cars.

A majority of members voted in favour of a motion to ask Mr Khan to reverse the decision and will refuse to erect any ULEZ signs on KCC land.

A KCC motion stated: “...this council condemns the implementation of the London ULEZ expansion that will impact business and separate families and friends who live in Kent from those who live in the historic parts of Kent that are now within the Greater London boundary, disproportionately hitting essential key workers and those on low incomes who cannot afford to buy new, compliant cars and therefore call upon the Mayor of London to reverse this decision.”

Conservative Cllr Jeremy Kite, who represents Dartford Rural, said he agreed with ULEZ in principle “in the right place but not in Kent”.

But he warned: “The mayor is not going to change his mind.”

The county already has its own Kent and Medway Energy and Low Emissions Strategy which aims to improve understanding of air quality.

In partnership with Medway Council and the Kent district councils, it aims to respond to the UK climate emergency and drive clean, resilient economic recovery across the county.

KCC said: “The purpose of this strategy is to identify an evidence-based approach to deliver clean growth.

“This includes strategies and actions to eliminate poor air quality, reduce fuel poverty and deliver an affordable, clean and secure energy supply.”

Cllr Rory Love (Con), who represents Cheriton Sandgate and Hythe East, said: “Sadiq Khan is to blame for this mess.”

The motion to oppose the ULEZ was passed by a majority of KCC members on July 13.

Essex County Council has also voted to oppose the ULEZ proposals.