MORE monitoring stations in areas classed as air quality management zones due to their high pollution levels have been recommended to be brought in.
Only six zones are currently checked, including Barnsley’s stretch of the M1 motorway from junction 36 to 38; Dodworth Road; Harborough Hill Road; Burton Road and Rotherham Road’s junction; the A616 through Langsett and the junction of Cemetery Road with the A61.
However, calls for more zones to be identified were made by members of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee this week, which were backed.
Coun Phil Lofts, who represents the Old Town ward, said: “The fact is, many people walk through areas of high pollution all the time and they are the ones who will be adversely affected.
“We do need more monitoring stations. My ward, for example, has Barnsley Hospital, industrial units and a large amount of traffic given its close proximity to the town centre. It’s the perfect storm.”
David Shepherd, the council’s director for regeneration and culture, added: “There’s a relatively low amount of monitoring currently, including ones in Langsett and Dodworth Road, as well as a few more.
“It’s all about resources and what’s available but it’s something we’re keen on doing more of.”
