A ROAD in Crumlin has the highest recorded air pollution level in the UK outside of London, according to UK Government data.

The 2016 statistics — from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs — reveal that the A472 Hafodyrynys Road, Crumlin has 69 micrograms of Nitrogen Dioxide.

The pollution is thought to be caused by busy traffic along the road, particularly at peak times in the day.

Cllr Andrew Lewis, of Crumlin ward, believes the air pollution levels have always been “extremely high" and peak at one end of the village along a stretch of 20 roadside houses.

“If you go past you won’t see any windows open and when you look at the grime left on these houses it’s no wonder they are so cheap," he said.

A air quality assessment by Caerphilly County Borough Council in 2013, estimated that around 78 people who live on the road are exposed to high pollution levels caused by HGVS and congestion.

MP for Islwyn Chris Evans has described the pollution levels as “unacceptable and dangerous” and is seeking a meeting with the council to discuss the issue.

He said: “It's a real problem and more needs to be done to protect the health and well-being of those who live on the road and in the local area.”

A council spokeswoman added: “We are aware of the high air quality readings in this area and have installed the air quality monitor specifically to look at trends in air quality data.

“The area has been designated as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and the council is working alongside key stakeholders to look at options to improve the air quality in the area."