Motorists are being encouraged to help improve air quality in the Hassocks area by turning off their engines while waiting for the traffic lights at Stonepound Crossroads.
West Sussex County Council has installed new ‘cut engine – cut pollution’ signs on each of the four approaches to the crossroads, to remind drivers that they can reduce pollution by turning off their car’s engine when in stationary traffic.
Overall, Mid Sussex meets all the necessary levels of air quality. However, Stonepound Crossroads in Hassocks has slightly poorer air quality due to the volume of passing and queueing traffic and the road layout of the area.
The new signage is part of series of actions recommended by Mid Sussex District Council in its Air Quality Action Plan for the Hassocks area. Other measures include a review of how traffic signals are operated, steering drivers towards alternative routes like the A23 and, for short journeys, encouraging local residents and school children to walk, cycle or take the bus instead of using a car.
Drivers can also help to cut their fuel costs and reduce pollution by driving in an environmentally friendly way. The AA website provides a number of eco-driving tips that can help drivers to reduce fuel consumption and save money. Regular maintenance, a smooth driving style and a steady speed are just some of the measures that could help motorists save 10% on fuel costs and cut down on pollution. For more information visit www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/fuels-and-environment/drive-smart.html
“This is one small action that people can take to help make our roads less of a health risk,” said Councillor Christopher Snowling, MSDC Cabinet Member for Health and Community. “By turning off our engines in stationary traffic, we save on fuel costs and if we all do it together then we will make a real difference to the air quality for local people who live nearby.”
Pieter Montyn, WSCC Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport added:
“Drivers may not think that they are stopped for long but every little helps and it’s important that we all do what we can to combat the negative effects of vehicle emissions.”
For more information about the Stonepound Crossroads Air Quality Management Area contact the Mid Sussex District Council Environmental protection team on 01444 477292 or email pollution@midsussex.gov.uk.
