Annie Gouk

Bootle’s Douglas Place, near Millers Bridge and Derby Road, has some of the North West’s highest measured levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. Residents say lorry traffic leaves cars and windows coated in soot and dust, while health experts warn that pollution contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Sefton Council says air quality has improved significantly and outlines measures including traffic sensors, port truck booking systems, cleaner vehicles and active-travel initiatives. Asthma + Lung UK argues that current UK pollution guidelines remain inadequate, while the government says it is pursuing stricter targets and emissions controls.