Air monitoring in Ramsgate reveals high pollution levels

Thanet council has revealed plans to introduce a new Air Quality Management Area in part of the town.

According to a report in Thanet News, High Street St Lawrence in Ramsgate is an area for concern as an increase in traffic volumes has led to a rise in pollution levels.

The news provider noted that nitrogen dioxide levels are likely to exceed national safe guidelines if action is not taken.

Councillor Zita Wiltshire, Thanet council's cabinet member for environmental services, told the publication: "Having identified this as a potential issue, the council needs to take action to try and improve the air quality in St Lawrence High Street."

Residents are being consulted about the scope of any management area and will also receive information about potential health issues.

Statistics released by KentAir, the organisation responsible for monitoring pollution levels in the Kent and Medway area, seven of its sites failed to meet their air quality objectives in November 2009.

Posted by Joseph Hutton