EFFORTS to improve air quality in York are not radical enough to make a real difference, councillors have claimed.

Proposals put forward include expanding Park&Ride in the city, introducing more bus and cycle lanes and encouraging car sharing.

But Labour councillors argued that only more extreme measures, such as introducing congestion charges, would make a real difference - and the city's Liberal Democrat leaders have ruled them out.

Labour group leader Councillor Dave Merrett said: "There are health implications for people in this city, and it appears that for political convenience, the council is ignoring its responsibility."

In 2002, figures showed that amounts of the pollutant nitrogen dioxide were predicted to exceed allowed annual limits in five areas of the city.

The council has to submit documents to the Government showing what it proposes to do to avoid the problem.

The issues were discussed at a meeting of the executive member for the environment and the advisory panel last night. Executive member Coun Andrew Waller said: "I can assure you we feel very strongly about the health implications of air pollution.

"But congestion charges would put the council at loggerheads with motorists and being seen as anti-car would not be helpful.

"Congestion charges are not in our manifesto, and we do not feel it is appropriate to introduce them."

The meeting also agreed to add carrying coffins to the duties of technicians at York's crematorium. It means that, if needed, funeral directors can ask technicians to help them take the coffin up the aisle - at a cost of £10.

Tony Smith, manager of Co-operative Funeral Services, said: "It is a charge that would not be passed on to the family, as we already pay part-time staff for this service."

Updated: 10:54 Thursday, August 07, 2003