The western extension of the London congestion charge area is to be scrapped, London mayor Boris Johnson has announced.

The move follows a consultation process in which 67% of those responding - and 86% of businesses - said they wanted the extension to be removed.

Mr Johnson said he would take the necessary legal steps to scrap the extension, which includes areas such as Kensington and Chelsea, but the earliest it could be removed is spring 2010.

"Londoners have spoken loud and clear, and the majority of people have said that that they would like the scheme scrapped," Mr Johnson said.

"One thing everybody should be assured of is my determination to make it easier for Londoners to get around our great city."

About 28,000 people had responded in the five-week public consultation.