Motorway improvements on M4 and M5 'will boost air quality'

Improvements on the M4 and M5 could help improve air quality, as well as ease congestion, it has been said.

Roads minister Mike Penning revealed that £150 million will be invested to create a "managed motorway" through Bristol, as the speed of the traffic will be controlled and the hard shoulder allowed to be used on these two stretches.

Work will begin on the changes from January 2012 and it is expected that the improvements to the road will help relieve congestion and reduce journey times.

Mr Penning emphasised the importance of the scheme, as he stated that transport provides "crucial links" for people in towns and cities.

Paul Unwin from the Highways Agency told Jack FM that the project could also improve air monitoring results, as this has occurred in other areas where something similar has been introduced.

He said in these locations, "we've seen emissions coming down between four and ten per cent".

Another area that could benefit from a reduction in pollution levels is Pendle after the Lancashire Telegraph reported that Pendle Council will set up an action plan to lower the level of nitrogen dioxide in the town.

Posted by Claire Manning