AN AIR quality expert claims the proposed Cogges Link Road will “substantially” reduce pollution in parts of Witney town centre.

Paul Taylor, a fellow at the Institute of Air Quality Management, spoke at a key public inquiry into the scheme, which reopened yesterday.

The inquiry will decide whether Oxfordshire County Council, which called Mr Taylor to give evidence, can compulsory purchase land for the road.

The Cogges Link Road, which will run from Oxford Hill to Station Lane, aims to reduce congestion and pollution in the town centre.

It particularly aims to reduce pollution in the air quality management area (AQMA), which includes Bridge Street and parts of High Street and Mill Street.

But campaigners say building a four-way junction on the A40 at Shores Green will be more effective.

Mr Taylor said: “With the Cogges Link Road, concentrations (of pollutants) are reduced substantially in the AQMA.

“In the AQMA, my evidence shows a reduction in concentrations more than the Shores Green slip roads would (deliver) in some locations.

“In my opinion, overall, both schemes have substantially beneficial impact on the AQMA.”

Residents, including campaign group Witney First, will give evidence today.

The Mawle Trust, which owns land needed for the road but is in favour of Shores Green, will begin presenting its evidence tomorrow.