50mph speed limits see pollution drop at Welsh traffic hotspots

Nitrogen dioxide emissions have dropped at five Welsh traffic hotspots where 50mph speed limits were introduced.

The speed limits were put in place and average speed cameras installed last year at five heavy traffic locations - including the M4 near Port Talbot and Newport - to help bring nitrogen dioxide levels within legal limits.

An interim report on the first 12 months of the 50mph speed limits being in place has shown a reduction of nitrogen dioxide levels at all five locations.

The Welsh Government wants to reduce pollution levels to comply with EU air quality standards and says further evidence is still needed.

The speed limits are in place at the following locations:

  • A494 at Deeside

  • A483 near rexham

  • M4 between J41 and J42, Port Talbot

  • M4 between J25 and J26, Newport

  • A470 between Upper Boat and Pontypridd