Lib Dem leader Vince Cable jumps on the bus in York

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable arrived in his home city and promptly hopped on a bus.

Sir Vince paid a visit to First York ahead of Liberal Democrat Conference in York.

He learned about the £1.6m plan to create Britain’s first voluntary Clean Air Zone in York, which will ensure that buses that frequently pass through the city centre are fitted with Euro 6 engines or better to reduce polluntants.

The Clean Air Zone will build on the introduction of more electric buses on the Park & Ride network.

Factory smoke

York-born Sir Vince visited an electric bus charging station at Monks Cross Park & Ride on Friday (15 March). He said:

• Air pollution is one of the biggest health challenges in Britain today.

  I grew up in a York that was heavily polluted with factory smoke, but while the air is cleaner, there are still unacceptable levels of nitrogen oxides and particulates.

  I was therefore pleased to take the opportunity to see the excellent work underway in York to tackle this issue.

  Cities must continue to invest and utilise new technologies, particularly electric vehicles, to cut air pollution for the benefit of current and future generations.
  

Cllr Andrew Waller, Liberal Democrat executive member for the environment, added: “I am delighted to welcome Vince back to York and who him some of the excellent work ongoing in our city to combat air pollution.”

“I would also like to thank First York for showcasing one of their new electric buses and charging stations; demonstrating how partners can work together to promote sustainable transport.”