THE most polluted street in Colchester town centre has been revealed after research by environment campaigners.

Five of Colchester’s town centre readings are above the World Health Organisation’s recommendation of 40 mg/m3 but the roundabout between Ipswich Road and East Street topped the charts with more than 60 mg/m3.

Several streets remain above the acceptable levels of nitrogen dioxide according to the findings of a new air quality investigation by Green Party members.

Monitors on North Station Road, St Botolph’s roundabout and East Hill also delivered concerning figures.

Green campaigner Mark Goacher said: “Obviously it’s not something that can be fixed overnight but it’s a further indication we need to look towards electrification.

“The main cause is the huge amount of traffic which builds around Colchester at certain points of the day.

“The council needs to make sure every car park is fitted with charging points because that will encourage people to buy electric cars and bring the price down.

“It’s worrying because some of the high readings are in areas which are particularly residential. If I was living in an area which was showing levels above 20 mg/m3 I would be terrified especially if I had children because their lungs are still developing.”

The level of nitrogen dioxide in the air at the town centre spots was monitored by the party during January.

Last year Colchester council put the reading for East Street at 41 mg/m3 but Mr Goacher said the position of monitors on the street can make a difference to readings.

Paul Smith, leader of the council, said the authority had a good record on its work on the environment.

Mr Smith said: “It’s disappointing the Green Party seems to be criticising the council on this because the highways are controlled by the Conservative run Essex County Council.

“It is a long-term matter but going forward we need to introduce electrification and make sure the park and ride system is improved because that’s the best way to tempt people out of their cars.

“It’s also disappointing plans for new roundabouts on the Avenue of Remembrance don’t account for cyclists.”

Yesterday Essex County Council revealed it will spend a £1 million grant on making Colchester buses greener.