SLASHING speed limits and moving pedestrian routes away from main roads has been a “great step forward” in improving air quality for residents.

Air quality levels have officially returned to “below legal limits” in East Mayne, Basildon, close to the A127, after an “excessive amount” of harmful nitrogen dioxide gas was found.

This has been achieved by introducing a new 50mph speed limit on the A127, and moving East Mayne’s pedestrian and cycle route further away from the double-carriageway.

Now, the county council is set to install new plants to continue improving the air quality in the area.

Jeff Henry, Basildon councillor responsible for health, wellbeing, leisure, arts and culture said: “Dropping the A127 speed limit from 70 to 50mph and moving pedestrian and cycle routes away from the central reservation in East Mayne has seen the return of air quality containing nitrogen dioxide back down to legal limits.

“The project is a great step forward to tackle air pollution in the borough so it ensures people’s quality of life can improve in the future.

“Although plants and vegetation do not fix the issue alone, there has to be a method in place, such as creating more beautiful open spaces to encourage people to get out and about.

“We need to carry on with this work and continue to find ways to ensure Basildon can become even more greener.”

The speed limit, alongside moving pedestrian routes, was introduced in 2020 to avoid the need for a charging clear air zone – dubbed a potential “congestion charge” by councillors at the time.

Stuart Terson, Pitsea North West ward Conservative councillor, said: “We are doing everything we can to improve air quality in Basildon to ensure we can give people the best possible quality of life.

“Cutting speed limits, moving paths and installing new vegetation and plants will help us to do this, but there is still a way to go.

“Our priority is ensuring people and the environment are both protected.”

Now, Essex County Council has been granted a licence to use land circling the Nevendon Junction, close to Sainsbury’s – owned by Basildon Council – to undertake a planting scheme between September 1 and November 30.

The land will be reinstated to Basildon Council ownership at the end of the licensed period.