A MEETING to discuss why Southampton needs a “strong clean air zone” will be held next month.

The event at the Quaker Meeting House on Ordnance Road will be a chance for the public to learn more about controversial plans to introduce the zone. As reported, a public consultation into its introduction is already under way.

But while industry chiefs have warned that charging vehicles will “finish” small businesses, and drive large employers out of the city, green campaigners are calling on the council to charge older vehicles as well.

The proposed up-to-£100-a-day charge for commercial vehicles is part of the council’s goal of lowering nitrogen dioxide levels to 40 micrograms per cubic air metre by 2020.

But port, ferry, and transport chiefs have condemned the plans, adding the target can be achieved without the need for a chargeable zone.

Southampton is named as one of five cities in the UK ordered to improve its air quality or risk a whopping EU fine.

Now Southampton Friends of the Earth campaigners say they are working with the council to make sure the “strongest” clean air zone possible is introduced.

A spokesperson for the group said: “Southampton has some of the dirtiest air in the country and Southampton council is consulting on a proposal for a Clean Air Zone right now. They are proposing to charge the least clean buses, taxis and HGVs to enter the city. But what about all the older models of cars on the roads which will continue polluting our lungs?”

“Southampton Friends of the Earth is working closely with Clean Air Southampton and wants to make the most of this consultation to ensure people’s views are heard and that the strongest Clean Air Zone is introduced.”

Speakers at the September 6 meeting include city council leader Chris Hammond, Liz Batten from Clean Air Southampton, and Jenny Bates from Friends of the Earth.

It starts at 6.30pm. There will also be a chaired discussion.