We have previously highlighted that air pollution in Durham City is above safe levels. The council is being monitored by the Department for Environment as the air quality breeches European standards.

The council does have an action plan but we have always believed that the plan would not lead to any noticeable improvement.

Cllr David Freeman said:

“I had a meeting with the Air Quality Team recently but found that little has happened that improves the situation.”

The SCOOT system, which was meant to improve traffic flow through the city from Gilesgate to Neville’s Cross, has not been implemented in full due to technical issues, bus fleet emissions have only slightly improved and green infrastructure measures are still being considered.

We have asked for updates on all the measures in the action plan and what is stopping the council fully implementing the plan. We have also raised the need for further Park And Ride sites and the monitoring of emissions from taxis, which often wait for customers with their engines running.

However, to improve air quality we need to remove far more traffic from our city. DEFRA is reviewing the action in 2021. At present progress they are unlikely to be impressed!