A CONGESTION charge will not be put in place on the A127 ... as long as the Fortune of War is straightened, council bosses believe. 

Basildon Council leaders are certain the threat of a congestion charge has been “staved off” but it will only be officially confirmed once further work takes place. 

A 50mph speed limit on the A127, as well as layout changes on East Mayne, have successfully reduced emissions - according to council bosses - with straightening the Fortune of War the final piece of the puzzle.

Gavin Callaghan, the leader of Basildon Council, met with Government ministers last year to raise concerns.

But Kerry Smith, deputy leader of Basildon Council, told the Echo confirmation won’t land on council desks until the Fortune of War “roundabout” has been straightened. 

He said: “We think we’ve done enough. We’ve come up with viable solutions that are far cheaper than what Government suggested.

“I don’t see them opening the cheque book to widen the A127 anytime soon.

“The Fortune of War needs to be straightened. That’s where our problems lie.

“Once we straighten that out, I don’t think the 50mph limit will need to stay in place. Drivers have been complaining about it.”

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Essex County Council submitted an “expression of interest” in being given funding for the Fortune of War plans this time last year.

It is understood County Hall is developing a business case to present to the Government in the near future.

As part of the changes to the East Mayne, pedestrian and cyclist crossings would be relocated to help avoid people coming into contact with air pollution if plans are given the green light.

It comes as a stretch of the A127 in Basildon and two areas to the south of it, were found to be exceeding legal limits for nitrogen dioxide.

Mr Smith now fears a new £5.50 congestion charge for drivers coming into Greater London, will “kill off Basildon businesses.” 

He added: “If it’s introduced, we will see cameras on the A127 and A13 catching people going in.

“What if you’re a roofer or carpenter in Basildon? You would need to pay more than five quid.”