We are told that the pollution around the A127 through Basildon is a big problem, and that speed limits and a congestion charge may be needed to tackle the issue.

I would very much like to see the pollution figures for before and after the massive waste treatment plant was opened along the same stretch of road, belching out a plume of steam or smoke 24 hours a day.

If the figures show that pollution has increased since the plant opened, we are all being taken for a ride with the blame being shifted to drivers.

By all means reduce the speed limit to 50 – it won’t make a great deal of difference given the amount of traffic on the road, but a congestion charge would only be a money-making exercise.

We don’t drive this route for fun, and if forced off by a charge we will just find other routes, which are more likely to impact on residential areas.

JACK COWARD Ward Avenue, Grays