AIR pollution levels in Rayleigh are set to be monitored and reduced.

An air quality and management area is set to be created in the town centre after pollutants from exhaust emissions were found to be above the National Air Quality Objective in some areas.

The proposed area includes the A127 Rayleigh Weir junction, High Road, High Street, Eastwood Road, Websters Way and Crown Hill and Hockley Road.

Apublic consultation will be conducted to finalise the boundaries before Rochford Council creates an action plan explaining how it will address the issue of pollution.

Keith Gordon, councillor responsible for environment, said: “I hope that by introducing this in Rayleigh town centre we can drive down pollution, in the interests of all those who live, work in, or visit the town.

“I feel is important, as a council, we take a proactive approach in monitoring nitrogen dioxide levels, and then take action where necessary.

“It is also critical we get as much input as possible from residents and businesses to ensure we address these issues and ensure Rayleigh town centre remains a pleasant environment.”

For further details, visit rochford.gov.uk/airquality or essexair.org Responses should be sent to airquality@rochford.gov.uk by November 14.