THAMESDOWN has welcomed the government’s decision to launch a consultation into a new air quality strategy.

A draft of the plan was released last week and is aimed at reducing the amount of nitrogen dioxide in towns and cities across the UK.

Over recent decades, UK air quality has improved significantly but there is a widespread acknowledgement that more still needs to be done.

Poor air quality remains the largest environmental risk to public health.

The problem of nitrogen dioxide concentration levels around roads is a major issue and the only statutory air quality obligation that the UK is currently failing to meet.

Proposed steps include mandating local authorities to implement clean air zones and additional funding to accelerate the uptake of hydrogen vehicles and associated infrastructure.

Among other steps, the government is also suggesting that further investment in retrofitting alongside additional support for low emission buses and taxi would be made available.

Andrew Wickham, managing director at Thamesdown, said: “We welcome any initiative designed to reduce the harmful effects exhaust emissions have on the environment and we are interested to read the proposals.

“Our bus fleet will fast become one of the newest and cleanest in the region. Since taking the reigns at Thamesdown, we have invested heavily to introduce a number of brand new buses which will operate our services.

“Our newest vehicles will sport the very latest Euro 6 engine, which releases fewer emissions than the average new diesel car.

“We also work hard to enhance the ways in which our buses are driven - through intensive coaching - helping us identify further areas of improvement in terms of emissions.

“Buses provide the perfect and affordable solution to reducing air pollution. By improving the services we offer - with more comfortable seating, reliable timetables, and on-board technology like free wifi - we are helping to make sustainable transport a far more attractive option.”

In addition to going green in environmental terms, Thamesdown passengers will soon see a more striking shade of green on their buses too.

The first buses sporting a new livery arrived in Swindon this week and will be on the roads around the town soon.