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WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
BY DEPUTY M. TADIER OF ST. BRELADE
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER 2017
Question
Further to recent testing of air quality in the Tunnel, what plans, if any, does the Minister have to restrict access by pedestrians and cyclists? If none, what steps will the Minister take to ensure the long term safety of users from repeated exposure to harmful emissions?
Answer
While the recent air quality tests in Jersey's tunnel confirm the air quality during peak times is poor, I have no plans to explore restricting access to the tunnel by pedestrians, cyclists or motorists. At this time, I believe it is for the public to decide if they wish to use the tunnel or use an alternative route that has lower levels of pollution. To reduce exposure to poor air quality for people using the tunnel, my Environmental Health team advises:
- drivers should close their windows and switch off air vents;
- when stationary, drivers should switch off engines;
- cyclists and pedestrians should minimise the time they spend in the tunnel.
My Department is working with the Department for Infrastructure in reviewing the signage at the tunnel for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
More specialist air quality monitoring of vehicle emissions is scheduled for this year, including a near real- time air quality monitoring system, and this data will inform future evidence based policy decisions.
Air quality in the tunnel is largely determined by the volume of traffic using it, although wind direction and wind speed plays a small part. With Officers and colleagues, I will be exploring ways to reduce vehicle emissions to benefit the air quality across the island through such mechanisms as Vehicle Emissions Duty.
I take air quality matters very seriously and it is important to remember that air quality across the island is generally very good.