Time of change is opportunity for cleaner air

Cast your mind back to the early days of lockdown, when carers were clapped and no one had thought of a trip to Barnard Castle for an eye test. With jets grounded, factories closed and cars left idle, it appeared nature was taking a deep, overdue breath of fresh air. And as pollution levels fell and smog lifted over some of the world’s most polluted cities, there was much talk of a ‘new normal’ with a promise of cleaner air for all.

Some hope. As we stumble our way towards something approaching normality, it appears the car could be king for some time yet. Understandable fear of infection makes some wary of public transport, and as workers and shoppers begin to return to our town centres the bubble of the private motor naturally feels safer to many. But it would be a great shame if an opportunity for change passes us by.

Upper Stone Street has claimed the unwanted crown of Kent’s air pollution hot spot. And, despite declaring a climate emergency, the borough council appears to be stuck in a jam rather than putting its foot down when it comes to solving the issue. Of course, everyone is making the right noises, but the last thing we need is more hot air.

It is true that the levels of pollution in that bottleneck are gradually declining over time, but much of that relies on advances in vehicle technology. It risks taking too long - exposing vulnerable people to fumes shown to contribute to ill health and shorter lives.

Habits are changing.

Let’s seize this moment to push for radical action on cleaner air.