ENVIRONMENTAL scientists are asking Bradford residents to have their say about air pollution and help shape a report that will influence future council policies.

The Air We Share is a project by the National Centre for Atmospheric Science to collect views from residents of three Yorkshire cities, Bradford, Leeds and York.

Next month the data the group collects will be passed on to local councils and national bodies responsible for improving air quality.

Several of the scientists were in City Park yesterday in a solar powered lab to get people’s views on air quality, as well as offer advice on how to reduce contact with harmful pollution.

They had equipment to take real-time measurements of particulate matter and Carbon Monoxide, and helping people make their own pollution sensor.

With local authorities now taking more of a responsibility for public health, air pollution has become an increasingly important issue for councils.

The fact finding roadshow is particularly timely. Earlier this month Bradford Council approved plans for an incinerator in the Aire Valley that many objectors argued would increase pollution.

And late last year it was announced that in addition to the four areas of the district that officially exceed national pollution limits, three new areas were likely to soon fall into this category - the former Saltaire roundabout at Bingley Road, Saltaire, the Dudley Hill roundabout at Rooley Lane and the junction of Harrogate Road and Killinghall Road in Undercliffe.

Dr Felicity Penny said: “So far in in other cities people have been really interested in what we are doing and giving us their views.

“We will be sending all the data and surveys we collect to councils and DEFRA, it will point out if there are any particular issues in the area that need picking up on.

“It is really important that people have their say on their experiences of pollution.

“As well as hearing people’s concerns we’ll also be offering advice so people can reduce the impact of pollution on their lives.”

These tips included walking in pedestrianised areas wherever possible, and trying to avoid walking next to roads with traffic congestion, such as busy ring roads.

She said the group’s reports to councils, presented in March, would be totally independent.

During yesterday’s event the Ozone levels remained relatively low, 45 parts per billion. Dr Penny said this was helped by the previous day’s storms and high winds.

The group will be in City Park again today from 10am to 3pm. People can also fill out a survey by visiting ncas.ac.uk/index.php/en/survey