A busy road in Sandbach will no longer be targeted by environmental chiefs as an air pollution "hotspot".

Middlewich was highlighted for special measures when it was included among seven air quality management areas in Cheshire East.

But as a result of falling pollution levels the borough council is revoking the arrangements which were introduced in response to raised pollutant levels in the areas.

Measurements were taken to help provide a focus for air quality improvement measures.

The council is now reviewing its air quality action plan and is inviting comments from local residents.

The data which influenced the decision were obtained over several years going back to 2015 – in some circumstances, prior to the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.

Improved vehicle technology and new and improved highways schemes, the council believes, have "most likely contributed to cleaner air".

The other areas where pollution measures are being revoked are:

â— Former A556 Chester Road, Mere (now B5569);

â— Wistaston Road, Crewe;

â— Park Lane, Macclesfield

The 1995 Environment Act places a legal duty on all local authorities to regularly review air quality, and except for a small number of hot spots, the council says air quality in Cheshire East is good.

Cllr Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for communities, said: "Our priorities are to tackle vehicular emissions by applying targeted measures for the remaining air quality management areas, as well as taking a holistic approach across the whole of the borough.

"We are committed to improving air quality across Cheshire East and now our residents can have their say and share ideas to help develop a revised and robust air quality action plan."

Consultation on the draft air quality action plan is open until 5pm on 12 March and anyone interested in air quality across the borough is welcome to contribute. For further information visit the council website.