AIR quality in Brighton and Hove has improved since the towns' bypass was built, new figures reveal.

The latest Brighton and Hove Council tests show that there are low levels of pollutants such as lead and sulphur dioxide.

Before the bypass opened parts of central Brighton hadhigh lead levels in the atmosphere, although drivers switching to unleaded petrol have also helped.

Nitrogen dioxide levels are down, too.

The bypass carries traffic that once used what is now the A270 through town.

Lewes Road, Upper Lewes Road, Viaduct Road and Old Shoreham Road have all benefited.

Council transport chairman John Ballance said: "Reducing traffic flows in the central areas is producing positive results and we are now reaping the positive benefits of the bypass."

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