AIR quality in the borough has improved considerably over the past 40 years, according to latest research.
Polluted air is a thing of the past thanks to heavy industry and coal fires having largely disappeared.
But the research also showed areas in the borough where air quality needs to be improved, such as at major roads including the M6 and the East Lancs Road.
In response to this, the council has decided to declare certain areas to be Air Quality Management Areas and has formed a task group involving businesses, the transport sector, residents and the Environment Agency.
Coun Brian Strett, who chairs the task group, said: "Producing an action plan to improve air quality will not be easy but this consultation reveals there is broad support for encouraging greater use of public transport, reducing pollution from industry, roadside emissions testing of vehicles and providing bus and cycle lanes."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article