Under Scottish Government regulations that require local authorities to act when levels of pollution exceed national guidelines, the Whirlies roundabout was designated in 2008, while Rutherglen Main Street was given the status in 2016. 

Now, improvements to the efficiency of vehicle engines, along with initiatives led by the council and its partners, have led to both sites recording below-average pollution levels for more than three consecutive years.

At the Whirlies, improvements to local public transport and cycling infrastructure, along with new segregated pedestrian space, have boosted active travel options. 

Meanwhile, in Rutherglen, junction upgrades and improved crossing spaces have improved safety for those using the area on foot, by public transport or by bike.

As a result, councillors on the Community and Enterprise committee this week agreed to a proposal that both AQMAs be revoked. 

Councillor Robert Brown, Chair of the Community and Enterprise Resources committee, has welcomed the results in both target areas.

He said: “In this committee report, we can see the tangible and measurable results of particular initiatives undertaken in Rutherglen Main Street, and at the Whirlies.

“The effort has been a collective one, involving not just the local authority but its partners, and of course, the people of East Kilbride and Rutherglen.

“We all want to see continuing improvements in air quality in our local communities, and on two of our busiest traffic corridors, in particular.

“These improvements help encourage more people to walk, cycle or go by bus and train - active travel is good for us and good for the environment too. 

“Today’s decision is good news and shows progress, but as a council, we certainly don’t see this as ‘job done’.

“Ensuring the quality of the air we breathe is a long-term commitment, and we will continue to update and prioritise our comprehensive Air Quality Action Plan now and in the years ahead.”

Following a period of statutory consultation, the revocation order is expected to come into effect in October. Detailed information on the levels recorded in each area before and during the AQMAs can be found on our website. You can also watch any of the council meetings live or on playback on the SL committees YouTube channel.

A third AQMA in South Lanarkshire - in Lanark town centre - was revoked following approval by the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee in March 2023.