In a BBC Radio Kent Breakfast interview today, CHSS Director and Canterbury resident Stephen Peckham supported action to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the city of Canterbury. Air quality breaches directives, and there are very high levels of traffic congestion for a small city. There are an estimated 40,000+ premature deaths across the UK due to traffic pollution. Diesel particulates pose a major health risk, with Public Health England claiming that around 70 Canterbury residents each year die prematurely from this kind of pollution alone. Adding in other traffic pollutants would lead to a much higher figure.
European cities including Paris and Delhi, have held car-free days, closing roads to focus attention and highlight sustainable transport options such as cycling and walking. In the UK, Nottingham has an annual event to encourage a car free city. Canterbury City Council are to debate the idea of such an initiative this evening.
Stephen said ‘We often associate pollution with urban areas but Canterbury and other parts of Kent have a significant air quality problem and heavy traffic volume. Anything which highlights how to reduce vehicle use and congestion and improve public health needs to be encouraged. Holland and Germany have invested far more in cycle paths and quality public transport to get people out of cars. Advance planning is key, as is getting businesses on board and raising awareness among the public. We need to encourage our council to develop sustainable alternatives and improve our public transport and infrastructure to support them’.
The interview begins at 1h08m ending at 1h 16m.
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