MORE than a third of people living in Colchester believe the town is “highly polluted”, a survey has found.

Hundreds of people were asked their views on air quality across the borough as part of a two year project to raise awareness of the issue.

The Colchester Council survey aimed to get a better understanding of what people know about air quality and the impact it has on their health.

Most of Colchester’s pollution comes from vehicles and drivers are being encouraged to switch off their car engines while stationary.

Earlier this year a study found the deaths of more than 80 people in Colchester in one year could be attributed to air pollution.

The survey, of 1,181 people, found 87 per cent were concerned about air quality.

A further 41 per cent think Colchester is “highly polluted” and only 15 per cent regularly switch off their engines whilst waiting at traffic lights or level crossings.

After the survey 84 per cent said they would now consider switching off their engine more regularly.

The survey also found 45 per cent of people think roadside reminders would encourage them to regularly switch their engines off.

Martin Goss, Colchester Council’s environment boss, said: “These survey results give a really good insight into current behaviours and knowledge around the air quality issues we face here in Colchester and give the team invaluable information to help determine what we can do to improve air quality.

“The environment remains our number one priority and it’s so important we continue to work together to improve our air quality in Colchester, especially lowering emissions in our most polluted streets.

“The reduction of traffic congestion and pollution throughout the coronavirus pandemic and during the lockdown period has shown us all what a difference we can make through simple changes in our daily behaviour.

“We want residents to take notice of this and the impact they can have, and we hope people won’t jump straight back in their cars but keep making those short distance trips by foot or bike wherever they can.”

Earlier this year the council was awarded £59,000 from the Government’s Air Quality Grant. It will be spent on a study on the effectiveness of an anti-idling campaign and a traffic light countdown feasibility study.