THE first Clean Air Zone in the UK could be set up in York, after plans go before the council next week.

A Clean Air Zone, or CAZ, aims to reduce emissions from buses in the city and tackle poor air quality in York, and will introduce an ultra-low emissions standard for the majority of local bus services operating in the city.

Plans will also aim to deter drivers who leave their engines idling in the city centre, with potential enforcement options to be considered by City of York Council's Executive.

A consultation is being requested from the Executive with aims to introduce the CAZ by 2020, and the Executive will consider the inclusion of an improved single ultra-low emissions standard.

Cllr Andrew Waller said the scheme would target the most frequent buses coming into the city centre, and reduce nitrogen dioxide, but would also look at ways to reduce emissions from other vehicles.

He said: "This is the first Executive report which recognises the issue of particulate matter caused by tyres and break pads which is increasing in public awareness.

"With its inclusion, the Clean Air Zone, if approved, will produce a more comprehensive plan to reduce pollution in the city centre and York can truly lead the fight against poor air quality. It builds on the work done during York’s participation in the first national Clean Air Day, which was held on June 15 this year and promoted sustainable transport and tackling idling engines."

The plans are due to be considered by the Council’s Executive on the 25th January.