ONE in 20 deaths in Colchester is linked to pollution, concerning figures have revealed.

It comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned air pollution is even more dangerous than previously thought, as it cut maximum safe levels of key pollutants such nitrogen dioxide.

It has now put air pollution on par with smoking and unhealthy eating.

Figures show some areas of Colchester exceed EU guidelines on pollution levels.

As the oldest Roman town in Britain, Colchester has many narrow roads in the town centre. The buildings form a canyon-like environment which can trap air pollutants.

Within the town there are three Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) where pollution levels exceed national guidelines.

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The AQMAs cover the town centre and the residential areas of Brook Street, Magdalen Street and the lower end of Mersea Road.

Other areas of concern include East Hill and Military Road. A major cause of this is vehicle emissions, Colchester Council said.

The issue has been linked to health problems including asthma, strokes, cancer and heart disease with one in 20 deaths in Colchester now linked to pollution.

Research has shown children are particularly at risk, with it affecting their lung growth and development, while pregnant women, the elderly and those with heart and respiratory conditions are also vulnerable to its effects.

To help tackle pollution in the area, Colchester Council has used funding to manage a two-year Clean Air for Colchester project which aims to cut pollution from cars, buses and vans.

It also launched the CAReless Pollution campaign last October which urged drivers to adopt better driving habits and switch off their engines while they wait at traffic lights, level crossings or outside schools.

A spokesperson for Colchester Council said: “The council is committed to improving air quality across the borough.

“While studies continue to show there is no single solution to improving air quality, we recognise pollution levels in some areas do remain stubbornly high.

“We need to continue to ensure air quality improvements are considered, introduced and extended at every opportunity.”