MOTORISTS could start paying to drive through Reading in plans to curb congestion and pollution.

The London-style charging zone could include town centre choke points like Cemetery Junction and around the IDR.

Reading is expected to hit it’s pollution targets by 2020 so does not have to bring in a clean air zone, which could be used to raise awareness without a charge, but may choose to do so.

Speaking at a meeting of the Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport Committee, at Reading Borough Council on Wednesday, July 13, cllr Ricky Duveen said he supported creating a town centre clean air zone.

“I would like to see polluting vehicles charged for bringing their pollution into the town centre,” he said.

“I also believe doing so would have a benefit for air quality in the town centre. I think the time has come to disincentive drivers from bringing their cars into the town centre and a clean air zone or a low emission zone could clean up the air we all breathe in the town centre.”

The town already has an air quality action plan to help tackle problem areas.

Tony Page, lead councillor for Transport, said: “This would need sensible implementation not to discriminate against people on low incomes who face enough discrimination.

“Most people don’t choose to run dirty old cars if they can afford new ones.”

Vehicle emissions are responsible for most pollution in the town centre with diesel cars blamed for 40 per cent of the nitrogen levels.

Figures released by the department of health revealed cutting particle levels could add eight months to your life, more than twice the benefit of cutting passive smoking, which adds three months.

Current plans to tackle pollution include creating park and ride facilities, reducing congestion on the A33, improving cycling facilities. increasing use of green energy and planting more trees.