Sustainable Merton wish to thank Merton Council for responding to requests to postpone a planning decision on application 17/PO438, which refers to the proposed concrete batching plant on Waterside Way.
We, like many other organisations and individuals, were concerned that the already poor air quality in this part of Merton might be further harmed by this proposal and so asked Merton Council if they would postpone any decision while an accurate assessment on air quality impact was made.
Both the EU and the World Health Organization have issued guidelines on what levels of air pollutants such as carbon particles (soot) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are safe for human health and well being and several parts of Merton exceed these figures – including the area affected by this proposal.
Polluted air isn’t just unpleasant, it is dangerous and kills. Last year it caused the premature death of 40,000 citizens in Britain including 9,000 in London. It also exacerbates the poor health of countless thousands of other’s as well as harming the development of children’s lungs.
Tom Walsh
CEO, Sustainable Merton