LEVELS of air pollution have risen to near-illegal levels in parts of Haslemere.

Waverley Borough Council published its long-awaited 2016 Air Quality Annual Status Report last Friday, revealing an overall improvement in air quality across the borough.

However, annual mean levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are approaching levels close to the national annual mean objective of 40 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) in Weyhill and Haslemere High Street.

NO2 levels of 39 µg/m3 were reported on the B2131 between Lion Lane and St Christopher’s Road, while 39.3 µg/m3 was found opposite Haslemere Museum.

A site at the A287/A333 roundabout in Hindhead recorded levels of 39.8 µg/m3.

Nitrogen dioxide, emitted by diesel cars, contributes to the onset of heart disease and cancer.

Up to 40,000 people are thought to die prematurely each year from the effects of air pollution in the UK.