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Narrow Streets and Tall Buildings Trap Deadly Air Pollution in London
11 Sep
Summary
- Pollution spikes found in narrow London corridors like Wilson Street and Eldon Street
- Measures recommended include green walls, more trees, and stricter controls on wood-burning
- 95% of neighborhoods in England and Wales had harmful air pollution levels in 2025

According to a recent study, London's iconic streets with narrow corridors and tall buildings are trapping deadly air pollution, posing a serious threat to public health. Researchers conducted a walking survey in London and found the highest pollution spikes in narrow corridors like Wilson Street (14m wide) and Eldon Street (13m).
The study emphasizes that the issue is not limited to London, as a 2025 report by Friends of the Earth found 95% of neighborhoods in England and Wales had harmful air pollution levels. While particulate matter (PM) levels have been falling, measures like the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and the Congestion Charge Zone need to be backed by further action.
Experts recommend a range of solutions, including the creation of vertical 'green walls', more tree planting, promotion of active travel, and stricter controls on wood-burning stoves. The study also highlights the potential of artificial intelligence to manage electric vehicle charging and traffic flow, which could reduce carbon emissions by up to 40% annually per vehicle.