A SERIES of events are planned to explain proposals for the proposed Clean Air Zone which aims to improve air quality and the health of people in the district - particularly in the city centre, Shipley and Saltaire where pollution is highest.

The recommended option will see the introduction of a Class C Clean Air Zone in October 2021 - which will require a daily charge for more polluting and non-compliant vehicles like buses, coaches, taxis, heavy and light goods vehicles when they enter the area. This will not include private cars.

Non compliant vehicles could be charged up to £50 a day.

Exemptions for small business owners, charities, school, emergency vehicles and other specialist vehicles are also considered in the plan.

Bradford 'clean air zone' could see HGVs, buses and taxis charged to enter city

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, portfolio holder for Healthy People and Healthy Places, said: “It is important people take part in the consultation and come down to these information events so they can see for themselves what the plans involve, how it effects them and why we are doing this.

“Pollution is linked to the number of preventable deaths in the district as well as the health of many more - so improving our air quality across the district has to be a priority for the Council.

“It disproportionately affects more vulnerable communities in our district which is why the Clean Air Zone and additional proposals are so important to making Bradford a healthier place to live, work and visit.”

A full public consultation runs from February 18 until March 26, with events planned

• Weds 19 Feb– Hockney Room, Margaret McMillan Tower, Bradford, 11am - 8pm.

• Mon 2 Mar – Main Hall, Keighley Central Hall, 1 - 8pm.

• Thurs 5 Mar – Hockney Room, Margaret McMillan Tower, Bradford, 1 -8 pm

• Weds 11 Mar – Ilkley Town Hall council chamber, 4 - 8pm

• Thurs 12 Mar – Meeting Rooms 1 & 2, Shipley Library, 1 - 8pm

There will be presentations at 1.30pm and 6.30pm with opportunities to view information about the proposals and meet Bradford Council staff.

Separate drop-in sessions are planned for taxi drivers as follows:

• Mon 24 Feb - Bradford Khidmat Centre, 11am - 2pm

• Tues 25 Feb - Keighley Central Hall, 11am-2pm

• Weds 26 Feb - Girlington Community Centre, 11am-2pm

The Clean Air Plan proposals have been developed after Bradford Council was instructed by the Government, along with 28 other Local Authorities, to reduce pollution in the shortest possible time.

Further information about the Clean Air Plan can be found at www.bradford.gov.uk/breathebetterbradford