Liberal Democrat councillors in B&NES have called for a Clean Air Zone for Bath and for other areas in B&NES that suffer from high levels of air pollution.
The proposal was brought to full Council last week in an agenda motion, proposed by Walcot Councillor Richard Samuel and supported unanimously.
Councillor Samuel commented: “Poor air quality is a serious problem affecting many residents in B&NES. It is past time the Council took concrete action to tackle the high levels of pollution that damage our health and the environment. It is up to local authorities to take action to protect residents.
“Young people, older people and those with long term health conditions are particularly vulnerable to Nitrogen Dioxide and particulate matter pollution. These can irritate lungs and lead to asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
“The government is due to issue a revised national air quality action plan at the end of this month; by adopting this motion, the Council is signalling its readiness to spring into action and benefit from any new powers or funding streams which are made available to local authorities.
“Our debate has also been a chance for Councillors to publicly commit to tackling air pollution and show residents that we are on their side and are committed to protecting their health.
“I am glad that this issue proved to transcend party politics and that all local politicians backed action to clean up the air we all breathe.”