The impact of poor air quality on children, the elderly and local residents will be explored today as a Holyrood Committee visits one of Scotland’s most polluted streets. The Scottish Parliament’s Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee will visit St John’s Road in Corstorphine as part of its inquiry into air quality.
During the walking visit, MSPs will meet with school children from Corstorphine Primary School, elderly residents from The Cedars sheltered housing and representatives from Corstorphine Community Council to hear their views on air quality.
The Committee will also visit the air pollution monitoring equipment on St John’s Road, which was installed to monitor changes in nitrogen dioxide levels produced by vehicle engines.
Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee Convener, Graeme Dey, said: “Our Committee wants to hear the views of local folk who live, work or go to school near St John’s Road on air quality and how it impacts their everyday life.
“We all have a right to breathe clean air and no one should have to suffer because of traffic congested streets. Air pollution can be especially harmful to the young, the elderly and people with existing heart and lung conditions. That’s why we will be seeking to engage with a wide range of groups during our visit.
“As well as discussing the health and environmental impacts being experienced, we hope to explore the actions needed to tackle poor air quality and how to address these.”