Specific Conservative environmental pledges include:1. Re-join the London Air Quality Network. Conservatives would re-establish comprehensive monitoring and enable real-time reporting of air quality throughout the Borough. Labour took the decision to withdraw from the Network and effectively suppress data on pollution levels. With data on air pollution restored the Council will be able to take action to mitigate the worst problem areas.2. Ban engine idling near schools, hospitals and health centres. Under Conservative plans engine idling will be forbidden near schools and health centres with contraventions attracting a fixed fee fine. 3. Support cyclists and pedestrians with a better route for CS9. The proposed route for CS9 has attracted controversy as it risk damaging the unique environment of Chiswick High and endangering pedestrians. Conservatives would look to support cyclists, shoppers and pedestrians by re-routing CS9 alongside the A4 road. 4. Support electric vehicles. Pollution can be lowered substantially by encouraging the switch from diesel and patrol cars to electric vehicles. The challenge is the dearth of recharging points in the Borough today. Conservatives would prioritise the installation of charging points while also replacing the Council’s vehicle fleet with electric and hybrid vehicles. 5. New boiler scheme. Old boilers are inefficient, polluting and can be dangerous. The Conservatives will offer to part-fund the replacement of old boilers.6. Plant 1000 trees. Hounslow is already one of the greenest Boroughs in London and to keep it that way Conservatives plan to plant 1000 trees.
Cllr Sam Hearn ● 2664d