Warning of possible air pollution on what could be London’s hottest day on record

By Lachlan Leeming, Local Democracy Reporter

Greenwich council has issued an air pollution warning for the borough, just days after Transport for London (TfL) signed off on a start date for construction of the controversial Silvertown Tunnel.

A social media post published by the council states that “possible high air pollution has been forecast today (Friday)” ahead of a predicted high of 36 degrees across parts of London.

The council said residents should “reduce physical activity” if they experience sore eyes, a cough, or a sore throat, are elderly, have asthma, or suffer from lung or heart problems.

The Silvertown Tunnel sign-off action is sure to draw the ire of activists who have long-campaigned against the building of the tunnel.

Transport for London said work on the construction of the tunnel will start as soon as Monday.

From then, workers will be able to remove vehicles causing an obstruction in the nearby Blackwall Tunnel area, while people obstructing the project will be liable to be hit with fixed penalty notices.

Pictured: Pollution across London seen from Greenwich Park