Pollution levels on Albion Road

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing to you to raise an important issue around the pollution levels on Albion Road. This information has come to the schools attention only recently from the publication of a report by Hackney Council [21/3/19] based on modelling of pollution levels in Stoke Newington to examine the impact of their proposed road closures in Walford Road. You can access the report here: www.hackney.gov.uk/walford-road-area 

Worryingly, it clearly shows that current pollution levels on Albion road outside the school are unacceptably high. I want to reassure you that I always have the best interests for Grasmere children at heart and will fight for effective measures to be taken to protect them from harmful pollutants.

Already, in order to combat pollution, the school has moved the entrance away from Albion Road and more recently installed air purifiers in every class. I am meeting the Mayor of Hackney on Thursday with other local Head teachers. If the road closures were to progress, I want to get assurances from him that we will be getting screening to ensure as much protection from harmful gases coming in from the road as possible.

Some of you have emailed me to articulate your strength of feeling around the proposed road closures. I understand your concerns. In the modelling, pollution levels in Albion Road are set to increase under the proposals. Please support me in challenging the council by reaching out to them directly. They have stated that it is the substance of objections, not necessarily the number, that will carry weight in making them rethink this proposal.
Assuming the proposal goes to cabinet later this month, there will be a 21 day consultation which will be clearly advertised. Please do look out for it.

Finally, please bear in mind that this is an emotive issue that can divide opinion and I urge you to help promote an atmosphere of respect if people have a difference of opinion to yours.

Kind regards,

Nick