A MAJOR study is planned to see if the Fortune of War roundabout on the A127 should be straightened, a council leader has revealed.

Basildon’s Labour council leader Gavin Callaghan announced long-term plan for an investigation to “determine the merits” of straightening the junction.

He spoke out after meeting with Environment Minister, Dr Therese Coffey, to oppose plans for a congestion charge on route.

Mr Callaghan was invited to meet the Government minister with leader of Essex County Council David Finch, to discuss progress in complying with the “ministerial direction” to improve air quality.

He said: “Longer term we have agreed with Essex County Council to have a review of the Fortune of War roundabout with a feasibility study conducted to determine the merits of straightening the roundabout. This will help in the long term”.

The Echo told last month how Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois was calling for the Fortune of War roundabout to be straightened.

Air quality assessments have found this section of the A127, up to the Pound Lane Junction, opposite the Dick Turpin pub, was exceeding air quality limits for Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), and a 50mph speed restriction would reduce this to a safe level by 2021.

Mr Callaghan says he is committed to reducing the speed limit from 70mph to 50mph, but is against a charging clean air zone.

He said: “It was a constructive meeting with the minister where I was able to put forward Basildon’s case for why a congestion charge is a disproportionate response. I impressed upon the minister we are taking the issue incredibly seriously and doing all that we can to bring our air quality to within legal limits.

“It is clear from our modelling that the introduction of a reduction in the speed limit will make a massive difference and go a long way to bringing us into full compliance, quickly.

“The truth is that there are no easy choices.

“To meet the Government’s very ambitious timelines we need to reduce the speed limit but I am committed to continuing to make the case directly with the minister to avoid a congestion charge in Basildon.

“I fundamentally disagree with that approach and will continue to work with all colleagues to make sure we defend the borough’s residents and businesses from a wholly disproportionate policy response.”