THE city council is expected to launch a new task force to deal with air pollution in the city.

During a full council meeting on Wednesday, July 26, councillors unanimously voted in favour of requesting the environmental health committee set up the task and finish group to look into ways to improve air quality.

The motion, put forward by Labour councillor Joy Squires (Arboretum ward), chairman of the environment committee, also urged the council to acknowledge the public’s growing concern about air quality, especially around schools and busy routes in the city.

The motion, which said that air pollution is a clear and avoidable cause of disease, disability and death, noted that the city’s health and well-being activity plan for the next two years identifies air pollution as an emerging priority.

It also recognised that improving air quality requires an integrated approach between the council and its agencies and partners.

Cllr Squires urged the council to support the motion, pointing out air that pollution in Worcester, affects every councillor, as city residents.

“The public have many concerns about quality of air in Worcester,” she said. I have heard from a number of residents in my ward and as a school governor, traffic outside school at drop off and pick up times.”

“Why bring this motion now? Now, is the time,” she added.

Conservative councillor Roger Knight (St Peter’s Parish ward) pointed out that the city has about 264 taxis, many of which spend a lot of time stationary, with their engines running.

“It cannot be good for air pollution,” he said.

Speaking on the motion, Labour councillor Simon Cronin (Nunnery ward) said: “It should be applauded that Worcester city is ahead of the curve.”

He said that “public awareness” should be tackled alongside work to reduce air pollution.

But he added: “If you plant a thousand trees, it can help but you can do it in a way that can make matters worse.”

Members commented on the motion’s timing, given the national announcements on the Government’s air pollution plan, which was branded 'inadequate' by several leaders of heavily polluted UK cities.

The licensing and environmental health committee is expected to set up the group when it next meets in September.