A CONSULTATION session takes place in Keighley early next month as Bradford Council gathers views on its plans for a clean air zone.

The event – at Central Hall, Alice Street, on Monday, March 2, between 1pm and 8pm – is one of a series being staged across the district to explain more about the proposals and gain public feedback.

There will be presentations at 1.30pm and 6.30pm and the opportunity to chat to council staff.

A recommended option would see the introduction of a so-called Class C clean air zone from October next year.

A daily charge would be imposed for buses, coaches, taxis, and heavy and light goods vehicles entering the zone – which would be focussed around Bradford city centre, Shipley and Saltaire.

The charge wouldn’t apply to private cars.

Certain other types of vehicle would also be exempt, such as those belonging to small-business owners, charities and schools, plus emergency vehicles.

The aim is to improve air quality and people’s health.

Bradford Council has received an initial £4 million from the Government to help fund its efforts to improve air quality in the district.

Health chiefs say pollution across Bradford is linked to around 200 preventable deaths each year and causes ill-health in many other residents, particularly those with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

The council says the release of funding is “an important step forward” and endorses its plans submitted to the Government’s joint air quality unit for dealing with air pollution.

The funds will also help create systems to provide financial support to businesses and organisations for upgrading their vehicles.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “We have worked hard to put forward a strong business case to the Government on why we need to tackle air pollution in the district and how it will make a real impact on the health of people living, working and visiting the area.

“This funding is a vital step forward and shows that the Government has faith in our plans.

“We now need the views of residents and businesses to help shape our plans.

“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 a 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.

“We all need to take action collectively and reduce the impact on air quality where we live.”

People can submit their views at bradford.gov.uk/consultations.