Almost 1,600 people have objected to the proposed closure of Coundon Road in Coventry.
Plans to tackle nitrogen dioxide (N02) levels at the worst pollution hotspot in Coventry – Holyhead Road – include the proposed closure of Coundon Road.
Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration, has previously said the plan would help encourage the use of trains while reducing N02.
A petition of 1,590 signatures has been collected in the space of a week objecting to the plans.
At full council on Tuesday, councillor Glenn Williams said: “To have nearly 1,600 people sign this petition in less than a week shows the level of concern amongst our residents and businesses.
“We understand the need to improve air quality in our city by there are serious questions around how closing Coundon Road will achieve this.
“It is claimed Holyhead Road has one of the highest levels of pollution in the city but investigations but residents suggest these figures are out of date.
“I do see the merit in closing the level crossing, but there must be a better way of closing that crossing and creating some sort of a tunnel underneath.
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The proposal forms the council’s wider Local Air Quality Action Plan.
The council said a drop-in session with residents was held last Thursday, and further comments can be made to onairquality@coventry.gov.uk.
A spokesman added: “Whilst the potential closure of the crossing is only one of many measures making up the action plan that is aimed at improving air quality in the city, it is the proposal that has generated the greatest response from the public.
“This is understandable, given the impact that it would have upon the journeys that people make.
“No decisions can or will be taken without full and open consideration of local views. To solve one problem and create another is exactly what must be avoided and we welcome all suggestions.