Council pledges to press for solutions to pollution problems (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Wandsworth Council pledges to press for solutions to Putney pollution problems

8:00am Wednesday 25th January 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

Wandsworth Council has pledged to press for more hybrid buses and stricter implementation of the Low Emissions Zone following a meeting with the Putney Society on Monday.

The society met with Councillor Jonathan Cook, cabinet member for environment, culture and community safety to agree steps to tackle the high NO2 levels in Putney.

It was agreed to put pressure on Transport for London (TFL) to introduce more hybrid buses, with areas most affected getting priority.

There will also be more pressure put on the Mayor of London to impose stricter regulations on the implementation of the Low Emissions Zone (LEZ.) The council is to encourage more walking and cycling, with the borough's car club scheme expanding this week with 60 new cars, including seven in Putney.

Mr Callaway said: "It was a constructive meeting, we felt they were supportive and listening to us.

"They supported us to put pressure on TfL for more hybrid buses, which will make a significant difference."

Coun Cook said: "Both organisations have serious concerns over traffic pollution in Putney and are treating the issue as a top priority.

"Crucially, we resolved to work with the Putney Society to persuade Transport for London to introduce more low emission hybrid buses on Putney routes which would dramatically reduce the main source of the high street’s pollution.

"Our experience with the third runway and Thames Tunnel campaigns shows that we can make a tremendous difference when we combine our efforts."

The Wandsworth Guardian raised the issue of pollution in Putney at a meeting with the Transport Secretary and local MP Justine Greening last week and she has also promised to push for greener buses in Putney.

She said: "Pollution in Putney High Street does need to be tackled and getting more environmentally friendly buses can help do that.

"That's why I have been working hard with Richard Tracey, our London Assembly Member, to press TfL for more hybrid buses in Putney."

The Putney Society and Roehampton University are also planning on starting an air monitoring study in Roehampton, working alongside local schools.

Mr Callaway said: "Focusing on schools is important now, they need to be more aware of the problems. A small nursery was planning to have a play area right next to the problems in Upper Richmond Road."