Making Cheltenham pedestrianised 'would improve air quality'

The air quality in Cheltenham could significantly improve if its town centre was pedestrianised, it has been revealed.

Computer modelling has shown that if plans to close Boots' corner were to go ahead, congestion would be reduced and air quality of the local area would be boosted, This is Gloucestershire reports.

The multi-million pound initiative would be implemented as part of the town's Civic Pride scheme but whether they are accepted depend on if council bosses can find the money to do it.

Speaking with the newspaper, Civic Pride managing director Jeremy Williamson said: "If you look at experiences of towns and cities which have made substantial changes to their road network, people alter behaviour by walking, cycling or using public transport."

He added that for it to work effectively, the area needs to improve its transport system, including altering the timing of traffic lights.

Cheltenham Borough Council is likely to want to reduce the pollution of the town as the local authority has been declared an Air Quality Management Area, for its high levels of nitrogen dioxide.

Posted by Joseph Hutton