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Traffic lights plan to cut Chesham pollution
Traffic lights at every junction on a busy Chesham road could be introduced in a bid to improve air quality.
An 'urban traffic system', which could see all turnings on to Berkhampstead Road and Broad Street become signalised is one of the options suggested for solving high emission levels caused by congestion in the area.
Chiltern District Council's cabinet agreed an action plan for the air problem incorporating new traffic arrangements, which will go ahead subject to a consultation.
Chesham Town Councillor for Hilltop ward Noel Brown argued for the views of Chesham Town Council and the police to be sought before a final decision is made. Mr Brown, who is also a Chiltern District Council cabinet member, said: "The air quality is a problem that's there and we need to look at how we can help if only for the residents who live along there.
"My worry is they are talking about a network where they would be putting traffic lights in all over the town. I am not sure a whole lot of traffic lights will achieve that. Chesham presents such a unique problem. Fumes stay within the narrow valley, which makes it harder for them to dissipate."
He added:"It needs to get the public behind it Ð perhaps imposing something isn't the best way to do it."
The district council was required to produce an air quality action plan when it became clear the nitrogen dioxide level of 40 ug(symbol)/m3 would not be met. An average reduction of up to 28 per cent is needed to meet the air quality objective, which is a requirement under the Environment Act 1995.
Nitrogen dioxide pollution forms from a mixture of nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide is released in combustion processes such as vehicle engines. It has been identified as having adverse health effects on the respiratory system. Short-term exposure can increase reactivity to allergens and high levels can worsen asthma. Exposure to children can lead to poorer lung function.
Other plans recommended by council officers included increasing parking enforcement, reviewing parking restrictions in the area and assessing highway obstacles to improve the flow.
Proposals to reduce the speed limit from 30mph to 20mph, was rejected on the grounds traffic often does not reach 30mph and restricting heavy duty vehicles from using the stretch was deemed unsuitable for the location.
The decision will be subject to further consultation with DEFRA and Chesham Town Council.
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Another no brainer idea! The congestion on those roads in rush hour is bad enough without traffic lights adding to it.
I cant see it helping the pollution levels,if anything Berkhampstead Road will end up with traffic moving slower waiting for the traffic from side roads to clear the lights.This main road needs to be kept free from any further disruption as its the main artery of traffic through Chesham.Maybe look into parking along the road,or widening the road in places,some areas of footpath could be reduced.