An urgent plea has been made to improve air quality in Perth after a survey showed it has failed to meet pollution targets.
Figures released by Friends of the Earth revealed that Atholl Street is the sixth most polluted street in Scotland.
When measured for nitrogen dioxide, experts reported figures of 55.1 microgrammes (mics) per cubic metre the European standard is 40.
It is one of several hotspots in the Fair City, including nearby Barrack Street, Tay Street, the Queen’s Bridge and Bridgend.
Air quality is particularly poor in these areas because they are regularly choked with traffic at peak times.
Now Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser is calling for steps to be taken to reduce pollution in Perth.
“These figures must serve as a warning to the Scottish Government as they are responsible for improving air quality in Scotland’s busiest cities,” he said.
“Perth city centre has witnessed numerous improvements in recent years, however the level of pollution on Atholl Street is a concern for residents and shop owners.
“The use of eco-buses and implementing low emission zones will no doubt improve the air quality on Atholl Street.
“Ultimately, there will always be localised hotspots of reduced air quality, but we must see a concerted effort from the Scottish Government to reduce these harmful toxins.”
The same street is also on the black list for particulate matter the air pollutant that most commonly affects people’s health.
It comes in at number five in the top 10, with readings of 24.9 mics per cubic metre, significantly above the Scottish target of 18 mics.
Efforts have been made to tackle the issue, including the introduction of a trial using state-of-the-art technology,
Hailed as the first project of its kind in Scotland, the system can alter the sequence of traffic lights in the area if pollution levels rise, hopefully ensuring that vehicles do not stop for too long with their engines idling.