East Lothian is joining three other councils in offering car owners free tests at convenient locations to see if their engine emissions meet acceptable standards.

East Lothian, Falkirk, Midlothian and West Lothian Councils are backing the Emissions Roadshow which runs until the end of October. It is part of a continuing awareness-raising campaign to cut pollution and save lives.

“ Last year more than 1300 vehicles were tested,” said Tom Logie, vehicle emissions testing officer. “More than 20 per cent of petrol-driven vehicles failed the tests and just over six per cent of diesels failed.

“ The feedback from the public to the campaign has been very positive. The aim is to educate and inform motorists about the importance of ensuring the vehicles they drive are well maintained and produce the minimum amount of pollutants.”

Cllr. Paul McLennan, East Lothian's environment spokesman said: “Poorly maintained vehicles, particularly diesels, produce large amounts of particulates. They have been blamed for damaging the lungs of the young and causing illness in people who have respiratory or heart problems as well as being the cause of cancer.

“ Petrol engines produce chemicals which can also damage health. Asthma sufferers are particularly concerned about the effects that traffic fumes can have on their health. All drivers can play their part and make a difference by maintaining a healthy vehicle.”

East Lothian residents can have their vehicles tested at the following supermarket car parks: Lidl, Musselburgh 24-26 April and 9-11 October; Tesco, Haddington 22-24 May; Tesco, Musselburgh 19-21 June; ASDA, Dunbar 17-19 July; Tesco, North Berwick 14-16 August; Somerfield, Tranent 11-13 September; and on Sundays at East Fortune 27 April, 25 May, 22 June, 20 July, 17 August, 14 September and 12 October.

ENDS

Issued by Rob Sinclair, Corporate Communications, 15 April, 2008
T. 01620 827741 M. 07887675547 email rsinclair@eastlothian.gov.uk