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Air Quality: Luton Road, Dunstable
27 June 2023
Lead MP
Andrew Selous
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Standards & EthicsLocal Government
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Andrew Selous raised concerns about air quality: luton road, dunstable in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP highlighted the importance of clean air and discussed a local issue concerning the Woodside Link road project, which was intended to reduce traffic and particularly heavy goods vehicles in Dunstable's AQMA. However, contrary to expectations, this road has led to an increase in HGVs on Luton Road, thereby worsening air quality for residents there. He presented evidence from various documents indicating that the primary objective of reducing HGVs within the AQMA was not met and raised concerns about transparency and accountability in local government decisions. The MP emphasised the need for Central Government oversight to ensure funds are used as originally intended.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the concerns raised by Andrew Selous regarding air quality in Dunstable and the Woodside Link road project. She highlighted significant reductions in major pollutants since 2010, setting new targets for PM2.5 reduction to be met by 2040, and emphasised the government's commitment to improving air quality through various measures detailed in their environmental improvement plan. The Minister also addressed the specific case of Luton Road, where she stated that nitrogen dioxide levels have been compliant with objectives since 2018 but there is no monitor for PM2.5 on Luton Road. She offered to meet with Selous and Transport Ministers to further discuss potential solutions.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.