CAMPAIGNERS are calling for action after Johnstone’s busiest street was one of two in Renfrewshire named and shamed as being among the most polluted in Scotland.

High Street, in Johnstone, and Inchinnan Road, in Renfrew, are both reported to have illegal and dangerous levels of highly-toxic nitrogen dioxide.

The gas comes from vehicle emissions and has been linked with serious illnesses such as cancer, stroke and dementia. 

Environmental body Friends of the Earth – who compiled a report listing 38 Scottish pollution zones – say that levels in Johnstone and Renfrew have consistently been above recommended guidelines.

Ron Ewing, chairman of Johnstone Community Council, described the worrying report as a “wake-up call.”

He told The Gazette: “Johnstone High Street is choking to death. I’ve heard many people say that, if the traffic in the High Street doesn’t get you, the pollution will.

“This report proves the issue for Renfrewshire is not just traffic congestion but also the health of people living and working in Johnstone every day.”

The European Ambient Air Quality Directive sets a limit for nitrogen oxide of 40 microgrammes per cubic metre of air (μg/m3).

In the past three years, levels in Johnstone’s High Street registered between 45 and 64μg, while Inchinnan Road was between 48.8 and 61.6μg.

Mr Ewing fears plans for further housing development around the town will mean more car owners and increase the problem.

He has called on Renfrewshire Council to take “decisive action” to bring pollution levels to below government targets.

“The council has known for some time the pollution figures have been too high, so this report should be the wake-up call needed to ensure decisive action is taken,” added Mr Ewing.

“We need to protect people in the town, especially young people. Something has to be done.”

Emilia Hannah, of Friends of the Earth, said: “The data confirms there are illegal levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution in Johnstone and Renfrew, which are putting the public’s health at risk.

“Traffic is the main cause, so Renfrewshire Council should consider how it can tackle traffic levels by promoting public transport, walking and cycling.”

A council spokesman said action is being taken to reduce pollution levels.

He added: “Paisley town centre already has an air quality action plan and we have now also designated specific parts of Renfrew and Johnstone town centres.

“We already have monitoring and prevention measures in place, ranging from testing air quality to warning against vehicle idling and significantly improving the environmental performance of the council’s vehicle fleet.

“In addition, we are preparing air quality action plans for Renfrew and Johnstone town centres. We aim to complete the initial draft in late summer and will consult with local community and business groups before those are finalised.”