North-south divide on air pollution 'a threat to economies and health'

Thinktank reports that northern UK cities are lagging behind on development of clean air zones

The delayed introduction of measures to tackle the UK's air pollution crisis will exacerbate the glaring health inequalities and entrench the north-south divide, according to a report.

Several local authorities in the north have scrapped or deferred plans to introduce clean air zones, regarded as the best way to tackle toxic air, while cities in other parts of the UK are pressing ahead with the schemes to limit dirty vehicles.