An NHS respiratory nurse has hit out at the levels of air pollution being emitted from a nearby building site.
Ruth Moss, 50, who works at Little France, has said that the level of dust being flung into the air means that cars at times are required to drive with their headlights on during the day.
The site, which is situated at the corner of Old Dalkeith Road by the Wisp, has placed large mounds of mud and dirt close to residential properties which appear to be blowing heavy clouds of debris around the area.
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In one image shared by the resident, a cloth can be seen covered in dirt after it has been wiped on a dresser. This was after a slant window was left open for just one day.
Ruth says that she has been left frustrated at the lack of contact from Edinburgh City Council and said that she hopes that the issue will be resolved. She says that she respects that new developments have to take place in the area but that it should be done responsibly.
On the issue, she said: “The issue started around three months ago when huge JCB diggers began to form mounds on the site. The dirt from these mounds now appear to be blowing over into our community which is problematic.
“I often cycle to my work at the Royal Infirmary and sometimes I actually have to wait to come along the road so that the dust can settle. I also have a neighbour who has to wait for the clouds to disappear before bringing their dog back home.
“It is damaging for residents' health. Not only this but it also means that we are unable to hang out our washing or leave our windows open.
“It is also impossible to clean your car as it will just be covered in dirt again. Some motorists coming along the road have actually had to turn their headlights on in order to see through the pollution.
“I left my window slightly open one day and when I wiped down my dresser it had a layer of dirt across it. I tried to raise the issue with the environmental team at the council but I feel as though I have just been ignored.
“Someone from the environmental team should really come out to inspect the site. Residents have been reasonable and understand building work needs to be carried out but we are just asking that a solution be found to protect our health.”
However, the council say that they were not aware of the issue but have thanked residents for bringing it to their attention. They hope to find a solution to the problem.
Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener said: “I was not aware of this issue, and I am glad that it has been brought to my attention.
“The Council are speaking to the site operator about how they can improve the situation for local residents”.
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