A RETIRED police officer is kicking up a stink over alleged air pollution from water works repairs outside his front door.

Greenock man Robert Fisher claims contractors working for Scottish Water are not following regulations to reduce high levels of smoke and dust.

He first raised concerns when the works began in Ardgowan Street and Patrick Street.

Now the local resident is calling on both water bosses and Inverclyde Council to take action to make sure residents are kept safe.

The former police officer, who specialised in industrial operations and fatal accident investigations, claims the public could be at risk.

Mr Fisher, of Ardgowan Street, said: "Air pollution is very dangerous.

"The weather is warm, everyone has their windows open and there are schools nearby.

"The particles will get everywhere.

"I have seen for myself the damage pollution does to lungs and it is easily avoided.

"When using a circular saw, they should have a water siphon and they should be wearing breathing apparatus.

"This has had not happened.

"I went over and spoke to the site supervisor.

"They apologised and started to do it correctly but that didn't last."

Mr Fisher says he first approached the contractors carrying out the work on June 4 and for the next couple of days the correct procedures were followed.

But just a few days later, on June 8, he spotted contractors using the equipment without reducing the smoke and dust again.

The former Strathclyde Police officer used to report and investigate as part of a team reporting direct to the procurator fiscal in relation to industrial accidents.

Robert added: "I contacted Inverclyde Council but I was told it was not their responsibility. But they are the road authority and my understanding is that they have some responsibility for air quality.

"I think self regulation is always better but people must adhere to them."

Scottish Water, who are carrying out work to improve the water quality to the area, say they are looking into the matter.

A spokeswoman said: “Scottish Water takes the health and safety of the public, our staff and contractors very seriously. We are currently investigating this matter."

A council spokesman added: "Our officers will attend and find out more about the concerns raised by Mr Fisher and link with the organisation involved.

"In general, if there was a health and safety at work issue reported to us in our area, it would be reported to the Health and Safety Executive who have appropriate enforcement powers."