THE Port of Southampton will be hosting a series of drop-in sessions for the public to find out more about owner ABP's clean air strategy published last week..

ABP staff will will be on hand to answer any questions.

The firm are putting up the strategy as an alternative to the city council's proposed clean air zone plans which could see diesel trucks, which do not comply to the top EU emissions standards, being charged £100 per day to enter the city.

ABP Southampton Director Alastair Welch, said: “Air quality is an important issue for ABP and we take our responsibilities very seriously.

“While there are clear challenges, let’s not forget that air quality has come a long way in the last 10 years. We want to do everything we can to accelerate the improvements and ensure we are part of the solution not the problem.”

Two sessions at Ocean Gate, the port’s head office, have been organised to give residents the opportunity to explore further what the port’s air quality strategy aims to achieve.

“We are keen to hear what local people have to say about air quality and to share our plans,” said Alastair.

The document includes proposals to continue the trend of reducing emissions in the city without the need for a city-wide charging regime.

“Our Strategy is designed to make sure we play our full part and deliver a sustainable future for the port which, as the UK’s number one export and cruise port, makes such a vital contribution to the local and national economy,” he added.

The drop-in sessions will run on:

•Thursday, July 5 from 4pm to 6pm

• Tuesday, Julu 10 from 6pm to 8pm

To ensure access to the sessions via Dock Gate 4, visitors will need to register by emailing contactus@abports.co.uk

To view the full report visit southamptonvts.co.uk/Port_Information/Sustainability/