CIVIC chiefs are set to receive millions of pounds of funding to tackle some of the most polluted roads in the county.

The funding from the government will allow Southampton City Council to tackle roadside nitrous oxide concentrations around three roads in the city.

Sections of the A35 in Southampton and New Forest, the A3024 in Southampton, and the M27 are among 81 roads in the country where “robust action” on air pollution needs to be taken.

The announcement was made by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs alongside proposals to end the sale of diesel and petrol cars by 2040.

It is handing authorities £255m across the south of England, though declined to say how much would be spent in Southampton.

To tackle the problem of high nitrous oxide levels, the council has already introduced plans for a clean air zone which by 2020 will mean vehicles such as older buses, coaches and lorries being discouraged to drive through Southampton by levying of a penalty charge.

A10-year cycling plan has also been announced, with a £25m scheme to invest and develop biking facilities.

Councillor Christopher Hammond, cabinet member for transformation projects, said: “We have made it our priority to reduce pollution levels and improve the quality of the air that we’re all breathing in Southampton.

“Reducing emissions and improving air quality today will bring about long-term benefits, making Southampton a great place to work, live, visit and do business.

“I welcome any additional funding to address the problem but we need a citywide approach rather than looking on a road to road basis.”

Councillor Jeremy Moulton, leader of the Tory opposition on the council, said: “The funding from central government is welcomed as Southampton is one of the most polluted areas in the country. But the Labour administration has not done enough and is taking actions when required by central government.”

Independent councillor Andrew Pope said: “Residents don’t get what they deserve, which is clean air.

“The Labour council encourages more warehouses, more HGVs and more pollution.”

Potential measures to tackle air quality along the three roads are yet to be discussed, but initial plans to tackle the levels of pollution need to be drawn up by authorities within eight months.