BETTER public transport has emerged as the top choice in the way people think pollution should be tackled in Saffron Walden. A call for more buses between the town and Audley End station and Cambridge city centre was the response from people who took part

BETTER public transport has emerged as the top choice in the way people think pollution should be tackled in Saffron Walden.

A call for more buses between the town and Audley End station and Cambridge city centre was the response from people who took part in Uttlesford District Council's air quality management consultation.

Environmental health officer Will Cockerell said: "We're very pleased that so many people took part in this consultation.

"We received a large number of good ideas, many of which will be taken forward for further consideration.

"It is encouraging to know that there is such widespread support for our efforts to bring down emission levels in Saffron Walden, and the responses we received should help us to do that."

The council has been working to reduce emissions at three of the town's busiest junctions: High Street and George Street; High Street and Castle Street; and East Road and Radwinter Road.

Another issue highlighted in the consultation included the problem of HGVs in the town. Although there is no simple solution to the passage of lorries from west to east in Saffron Walden, one comment received suggested there should be spot checks on their emission levels, and a requirement for them to switch off their engines when stationary.

Solutions to problems caused by the 'school run' were also included among the comments. One school said it encouraged walking or cycling to school, but said it was concerned for children's safety when cycling.

A 'walking bus' scheme was proposed, as well as a universal school bus system similar to the yellow buses that exist in America.

Finally, a desire for safer cycling routes to Little Walden, Audley End and Wimbish was expressed.