Climate activists 'deflate tyres of 40 SUVs' in Glasgow's West End

An environmental group has claimed to have targeted dozens of cars in North Kelvinside last night

Author: Sophie AdamsPublished 3rd Jun 2022
Last updated 3rd Jun 2022

Climate activists have claimed to have let down the tyres of 40 SUVs in the West End of Glasgow.

The campaign group, called 'The Tyre Extinguishers', said its members targeted dozens of vehicles in the "affluent" area of North Kelvinside last night.

READ MORE: Environment campaigners 'deflate tyres on 50 SUVs' in Shawlands and Newlands

The environmental campaigners said they want to see bans on SUVs in urban areas, pollution levies to tax SUVs "out of existence", and investment in free, comprehensive public transport.

The group stressed that until politicians "make this a reality", they will continue to deflate the tyres of SUVs across the country.

Last year, around 60 cars were targeted in the West End of Glasgow during the Cop26 climate summit.

It follows a number of similar incidents in Edinburgh and other areas of Glasgow in recent weeks.

READ MORE: Cop26 climate activists target SUV owners in the west end of Glasgow

Nick Otto, a member of the Glasgow Tyre Extinguishers, said: "Members of the Tyre Extinguishers have taken this action because we are in a climate emergency; we have a short and rapidly closing window of time to make changes that will protect the future for all life on earth."

He added: "If SUVs were a country, they would be the 6th largest emitter in the world.

"SUVs in cities are unnecessary, dangerous, and polluting. We want to see a cleaner and safer Glasgow. If our leaders won’t make the changes to protect us, then we must take matters into our own hands."

READ MORE: Scotland's shops are the least busy in the UK as footfall decreases

Superintendent Ross Allan said: “We have received reports of vehicle tyres being deliberately deflated in the Glasgow area. This is a reckless and potentially dangerous act which could put drivers and other road users at risk.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we would encourage members of the public to call us immediately if they see anyone acting suspiciously close to parked vehicles.

“I would also urge all drivers to check their vehicle before setting off and to contact the police on 101 should they suspect their vehicle has been tampered with.”

Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.