IT'S official -- Preston folk can breathe a sigh of relief after air quality specialists gave the town the thumbs up.

A comprehensive study has shown that the quality of air in many parts of Preston meets national guidelines.

A team of specialist environmental consultants was employed by Preston Borough Council to carry out a full assessment of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) pollution levels.

Under the National Air Quality Strategy the council has a statutory duty to monitor air quality -- in particular Nitrogen Dioxide levels which are emitted from car and lorry exhausts.

The specialists' assessment showed that NO2 levels were within national guidelines and that the council does not need to consider special measures by declaring an Air Quality Management Area for Nitrogen Dioxide.

However, it was not all good news for the authority and in particular residents. The team of consultants advised that the council should continue to monitor Nitrogen Dioxide levels at six road junctions -- North Road/Ormskirk Road, Preston's Ringway, London Road/Queen Street, M55 roundabout, Garstang Road/Woodplumpton Road and Guildway/Bow Lane. Councillor Andy Campbell, Preston's cabinet member for environment, welcomed the announcement -- but warned against complacency.

He said: "Overall, the air quality in Preston is good but we cannot be complacent.

"Traffic pollution poses the greatest threat to our air quality and the environment.

"The council will continue to monitor the situation closely."

He added: "We will also take action to promote alternative forms of transport and use emission-busting vehicles to make sure the continued quality of air we breathe."