A lower, temporary speed limit on a road passing through a village in Dorset will become permanent after a trial aimed at cutting emissions.
During the 18-month experiment, the limit along a section of the A35 at the western end of the village of Chideock was lowered from 40mph to 30mph.
The trial also involved the use of the air quality monitoring equipment and patrols by an emissions monitoring vehicle. Analysis of the data found there was a small reduction in emissions.
Reduction in nitrogen dioxide
“As part of our ongoing work, we undertook and completed a trial that saw additional diffusion tubes installed and an electric-powered van monitoring real-time pollution before and after the speed limit change,” said Andy Roberts, Highways England route manager for the A35.
“This identified a small reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels following the reduction of the speed limit and, as a result of the localised air quality benefit, we propose to make the extended 30mph zone a permanent fixture.”
Doset councillor Ray Bryan added: “I’m pleased to hear that the speed trial in Chideock has gone towards helping improve the air quality in the village, and the 30mph speed limit is being made permanent. Due to the challenging topography of the village, the solution to improving air quality on this strategic route depends largely on wide-spread adoption of clean technology and other changes to travel habits.
“In the meantime, we will continue to work with our partners at Highways England to monitor emissions in the area and continue to seek ways to further improve air quality for residents.”
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