Emergency 50mph speed limits to tackle illegal pollution

Credit: PA

Emergency 50 mph speed limits are being imposed on five sections of the Welsh road network where levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution are at illegally high levels. The five locations are:

  • A470 between Upper Boat & Pontypridd

  • A483 at Wrexham

  • A494 at Deeside

  • M4 between Junctions 41 & 42 (Port Talbot)

  • M4 between junctions 25 & 26 (Newport)

It's expected that the speed limits will bring about immediate improvements in air quality, with NO2 emissions cut by up to 18%. They will be imposed within the next two months.

The decision was announced in the Senedd by the Environment Minister, Hannah Blythyn.

She told AMs that a consultation will be launched today on plans for Clean Air Zones, areas where the most polluting vehicles have restricted access or are banned completely.

There will also be a £20 million Air Quality Fund, to help local councils tackle traffic pollution.