Proposals to cut air pollution in Oxford have been rejected by county councillors -- prompting criticism that they are complacent.

John Power, county councillor for Oxford West, told the county executive board urgent action was needed to reduce high nitrogen oxide levels caused by buses.

The level of nitrogen dioxide in Queen Street is almost twice the Government limit, and is also too high in other parts of the city centre to meet this year's national targets. Nitrogen dioxide, contained in exhaust fumes, is less harmful than carbon monoxide, but can cause asthma if inhaled in sufficient quantities.

Elsewhere in the city centre, George Street, High Street and Park End Street also exceed the nitrogen dioxide target of 40 micrograms per cubic metre.

Mr Power said an executive board recommendation to "endorse the further development and analysis of potential measures to achieve air quality targets" was com- placent. He proposed a meeting with bus company managers to suggest a series of new routes.

Roy Darke, Labour city councillor for Marston, suggested a series of further measures, including:

Urging the Government to legislate for camera enforcement in High Street

Getting bus companies to agree to switch their engines off when they are picking up passengers

A single ticket for passengers in the city centre, so boarding delays are minimised

Bidding for more Government money.

But the county council executive refused, claiming the issues were already being addressed.

Mr Darke said: "It's disappointing. We are supposed to be working in partnership."

The air quality management area has been extended to include St Clement's as far as Morrell Avenue, Cowley Road from The Plain to Divinity Road, the east side of St Giles as far as Woodstock Road as well as a longer section of St Aldate's.