Traffic in Kingsthorpe is polluting the air above acceptable levels set by the government.

The Borough Council have declared the Harborough Rd, from the Cock Hotel to past the Frog & Fiddler, and Kingsthorpe Grove on the Primary School to the Cock Hotel as an ‘air quality management area’.

The Council have been measuring levels of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in this area, and they have been higher then the recommended levels. The Council will now have to prepare within 18 months an Air Qulaity Action plan and any decisions, such as new developments, will have to take into account their impact upon the air quality in the area.

This is not the first Air Quality Management Area in Northamnpton, there are others on the M1, Victoria Promenade and St. James, but traffic levels are growing fast in Northampton, and we all have to do something to reduce traffic congestion if the air in the middle of Kingsthorpe is going to be safe to breathe. It isn’t just about new developments, it’s about all our lifestyles. Do you need the car for your next journey?

The County Council have announced that they will resurface the footpaths in Thornby Drive and Welford Rd Service Rd. The Focus team have been pressing for this work to be done for several years, particularly since work was done in Kingsway and neighbouring roads last year.

Footways, kerbs and vehicle crossings will be reconstructed, and work is due to start early in the new year, depending on the weather. Any queries before work starts should be made to Mr Stephen Cross on 01604 883449. Detailed information when work has started on phasing, access and progress on site should be made to Mr. Tony Gale on 01604 654644.