FIVE new environmental wardens will be taken on by Bradford Council as part of plans to improve air quality around schools.

Cash brought in by Bradford’s controversial Clean Air Zone charges will be used to fund the £1.09 million Clean Air Schools Programme.

This will involve a new campaign to reduce idling – particularly around schools.

The Council can issue drivers who leave their engines running while their car is parked up with fines.

Members of the decision-making executive heard that while the wardens will be able to issue £20 on-the-spot fines as part of enforcing anti-idling, they will also focus on awareness.

They will also support the ongoing School Streets programme, with help available to all schools across the district.

Councillors agreed to go ahead with the Clean Air Schools Programme and the use of anti-idling regulations and enforcement with fines.

They also approved a £500,000 grant programme, offering up to £10,000 to schools for projects such as improved cycling and walking access, green barriers in front of schools, and walking buses.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, executive member for healthy people and places, said that the statistics show 38 per cent of Bradford’s childhood asthma cases are caused by vehicular emissions and t these measures aim to have an impact on the school environment.