Free vehicle emissions checks in Sydenham, March 29th-30th

Air pollution in London is responsible for 4,000 premature deaths a year - the capital has the worst air quality in the UK and among the worst in Europe. Having failed to tackle the problem adequately, the Mayor of London has been given a three-month extension to introduce short-term measures to reduce pollution to avoid a fine of up to £300m from the EU (those meddling Eurocrats with their straight cucumbers and their clean air).

So this is a welcome and important initiative from Lewisham Council:

Lewisham Council is encouraging residents with vehicles to have their exhaust emissions checked in order to help the Council control the air quality of the borough.

The Council is trialling an emissions test event next week. It's taking place in the Council car park in Girton Road, Sydenham SE26 on 29 and 30 March between 10am-4pm. Residents can turn up at any point during the day and have their vehicle emissions tested.

Each test is free and will last approximately 10 minutes. Drivers will have the opportunity to talk to those staff present about their results. There will also be free leaflets available containing eco driving tips and information on air pollution.