Local authorities across the country have been granted more than £2.2 million in government funding to deliver innovative projects to improve air quality.

Forming part of the government’s Air Quality grant, the investment will support schemes which help councils develop and implement measures to benefit schools, businesses and residents, reducing the impact on people’s health and creating cleaner and healthier environments.

The funding distribution includes: £156,377 for Canterbury City Council in its efforts to improve the current anti-idling campaign along school route, as well as the installation of fast electric charging points; £105,000 for the City of York Council to encourage take up of electric taxis through behaviour and awareness campaign; £340,000 for Transport for West Midlands to retrofit of at least 20 buses to Euro VI; and £87,350 for Warrington Borough Council to encourage take up of electric taxis through behaviour and awareness campaign, as well as enhance the current low emission taxi strategy and install rapid charge points.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “While air pollution has reduced significantly in recent decades, we know the impact that it continues to have on communities in the UK. That is why the government is committed to not only improving air quality on a national level, but also helping local authorities take action in their own areas. The projects supported by this latest round of funding demonstrate how local authorities can deliver innovative solutions for their communities, and we’ll be working with them closely to offer ongoing support.”

More than £64 million has been awarded through the Air Quality Grant since it was launched in 1997.