Bradford could become a model for green progress if its transport problems are tackled effectively, a survey revealed today.

A study by Friends of the Earth found that people living in the more deprived areas of the city, such as Little Horton, University ward and Bradford Moor, were more likely to suffer from ill health and accidents because of high levels of traffic.

But the report claimed that if transport policies were dealt with effectively, the city could take a lead and show other cities the way forward.

According to the report, there were fewer car owners and poorer public transport in the deprived areas but a higher volume of vehicles resulting in air pollution.

It recommended that key issues included improving public transport, walking and cycling conditions and reducing the need to travel by introducing services closer to people.

Tony Bosworth, Friends of the Earth's transport campaigner, said: "The action needed to tackle Bradford's transport problems is needed all over the country.

"Get it right and Bradford could be a model for green progress in transport policy.

"People living in more deprived areas suffer the worst traffic impacts which are pollution, noise and danger. They are also the people least likely to be causing the problems as few of them own cars."

Figures released by the Government revealed that each year thousands of people die prematurely from air pollution while thousands more died in accidents.

But a Bradford Council highways spokesman said public transport had been a key issue tackled in the city for a number of years.

He said: "Bradford's local transport plan does, and has for a number of years, concentrated on improving public transport which is one of the key issues raised in the report.

"This is evident by the significant investments in the Manchester Road guided busway and the consultations to improve public transport."

Councillor David Ford (Green, Shipley West) said: "There needs to be greater public transport links and the local authority should look at European initiatives which have cut down on road congestion."