ZONES to prevent “idling” vehicles could be introduced outside schools in Oldham as part of a crackdown on air pollution.

Cabinet member Arooj Shah revealed that council bosses across the region were considering implementing the measures in response to concerns over poor air quality.

A think-tank warned earlier this year that Greater Manchester’s deadly air pollution crisis is worse than London’s, with the problem reducing residents’ life expectancy and stripping £1bn from the local economy a year.

Hollinwood councillor Martin Judd raised the issue at a meeting of the full council on Wednesday after he said concerns were raised over cars being left with their engines running outside schools for around half an hour.

“Many of us in this room and the wider public will be aware that air pollution is a major risk to our health, more so to children and people over 65, or those with respiratory conditions,” he said.

“Given this, residents outside schools in Hollinwood have reported cars being left idling for up to 30 minutes at school pick up time.

“Can the relevant cabinet member outline what practical steps have been taken to reduce emissions outside schools in Oldham, and investigate any further steps we could take such as the introduction of non-idling zones to protect the health of our most vulnerable.”

Chadderton South’s Cllr Shah replied that air quality was ‘really high on the agenda’.

She said: “I confirm that Oldham council are actively working with other Greater Manchester local authorities on the clean air plan for Greater Manchester.

“Initiatives such as non-idling zones, especially around school sites are being considered as part of that work and the results of which will be consulted on across the whole of GM in the next few months.

“Schools could also run their own campaign if they choose and I am sure that the council would look to support wherever it could.”

Earlier this year the government told council bosses they must tackle air pollution on a section of the A62 bypass which is in danger of breaching legal air quality limits

The section, which runs from King Street roundabout to the traffic lights at Mumps, will exceed allowed pollution levels by 2021, according to data modelling.

Among the proposals to bring down pollution levels are plans to introduce incentives for drivers of light goods vehicles and cars to switch to electric vehicles – including council employees, their partner staff, and private hire taxis.