Revealed: traffic pollution hotspots

The worst pollution hotspots in London are pinpointed for the first time today.

Analysis of more than 20 key sites shows that in all but two locations, "safe" levels of deadly pollutants are being exceeded daily.

Levels of nitrogen dioxide - an irritant that causes inflammation of the airways - are soaring way above the recommended limit of 40 microgrammes per cubic metre.

On the Ilford Broadway, this figure reaches 120 microgrammes, and on the busy King's Road the level of nitrogen dioxide is 86 microgrammes. Meanwhile, on the Cromwell Road pedestrians and cyclists - as well as drivers themselves - are subjected to levels of about 76 microgrammes.

The pollution from vehicle engines is especially serious for those with breathing problems such as asthma.

In most locations, predicts study author Professor Mike Pilling of Leeds University, levels of the pollutant will eventually tail off as stricter EU and UK legislation governing vehicle emissions is phased in.

Technological advances by vehicle manufacturers will also play a role.

But at some sites, emission levels will remain way beyond "safe" limits for many years to come, resulting in damaging long term exposure for millions of Londoners. Even by 2010, experts predict that nitrogen dioxide levels will remain at around 62 microgrammes in Marylebone Road and at around 61 across Kensington, Chelsea and Knightsbridge.

Professor Pilling gathered pollution readings using sophisticated monitoring equipment on routes between major London locations.

The study comes after he warned in yesterday's Standard that pollution from the capital was already affecting other parts of the UK - and even other cities worldwide.

Levels are so high they could be causing millions of premature deaths worldwide, he said.

He added that pollution "maps" show that the worst-affected areas are near the capital's busiest roads.

"Pollution levels are getting better, but not fast enough," Professor Pilling told the Standard.

"We are going to need to adopt new solutions if we really want to make a

difference. The problem is we drive our cars too much and we assume that we can continue to do so. Well of course we can, but we will pay a penalty further down the line; we have to take some tough decisions."

Professor Pilling said that nitrogen dioxides were at dangerous levels on nearly one quarter of major roads in London.

Dr Roy Colvile, senior lecturer in air quality at London's Imperial College, said Londoners could take measures to minimise their exposure to pollution.

"By carefully choosing your route when you cycle or walk, you can make a big difference," he told the Standard.

"Pollution does drift but it defuses the further you get away from it, and being 20 metres away can make a big difference."

He urged Londoners who walk or cycle to stick to "green" corridors - such as major parks - whenever possible.

He said drivers could minimise their intake of harmful pollutants by keeping as big a gap between themselves and the car in front as possible.

"You can get clean air in London if you try," Dr Colvile said. "There are some beautiful back streets and parks - people should try discovering them more."