Air quality maps show that, in Runnymede and Weybridge, the largest impact we face is from our motorways and major A roads. Residents also know there is almost no part of the constituency that is not affected by motorway noise. We live in the most densely populated area surrounding a concrete motorway and this surface generally creates a lot more noise under such high traffic volumes.
I have engaged with National Highways, Surrey County Council, transport providers and Government colleagues to deliver improvements to reduce both noise and air pollution. I have:
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Campaigned for National Highways England to take action to reduce noise pollution from the M25, through both improvements to the road surface (and ideally a replacement of the concrete sections of motorway) and sound barriers
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Supported the delivery of greener transport and technology, including greener buses and trains, as well as encouraging greater green infrastructure, such as charging points for electric vehicles.
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Supported Surrey County Council to deliver improvements to our road network with reflect the needs of residents. In particular reducing emissions at level crossings, supporting schemes to reduce congestion and providing greater walking and cycle infrastructure alongside our road network
- Pressed for further progress on ambitious national policy to reduce emissions and ensure sustainable energy and fuel supplies. You can see my recent consultation response regarding the transition to Zero Emission Vehicles here.
Proximity to Heathrow airport also has a significant impact on air and noise pollution. To help address this I am have worked with Heathrow and the aviation sector in support of Jet Zero and the development of greener aviation fuels. My response to the Government's recent consultation on sustainable aviation fuels is available here. I have also responded to the recent consultation on Heathrow's Noise Action Plan, which you can view here.
I have also been campaigning for the delivery of the River Thames Scheme, which in addition to flood protection will also bring significant infrastructure improvements.