THE issue of differing estimates of life expectancy across Thurrock has again been raised within its council chamber.

People living in some of the borough's poorest communities can expect to live up to eight years less than residents in wealthier parts of the borough, councillors have heard.

Speaking at last week's meeting of the full council, former mayor and Labour councillor Sue Shinnick asked what was being done to address poor health outcomes in parts of Grays and Tilbury.

Cabinet member for adult health and housing services Cllr Robert Willoughby said the council was "very acutely aware" of the issue and was working with health partners to tackle it.

Cllr Willoughby said a range of factors contributed to the gap, including deprivation, employment issues and higher rates of long-term health conditions.

He added that people in disadvantaged communities not only lived shorter lives, but also spent fewer years in good health.

"The council and our health partners are using preventative and targeted measures to address the gap. These include promoting healthier lifestyles, tackling obesity and smoking, improving access to health services, encouraging physical activity and reducing social isolation," he said.

"Work is also being carried out with local communities to address social and economic issues affecting health and wellbeing. Partners include the NHS and the integrated care system."

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Although overall life expectancy in Thurrock is close to the national average, significant differences remain between communities.

Cllr Willoughby told councillors, male life expectancy in the borough stands at 79.4 years compared with 79.5 nationally, while women live an average of 82.7 years compared with 83.3 across England.

Cllr Shinnick also raised questions about air quality monitoring in Tilbury and whether pollution could be affecting residents' health and life expectancy.

The long-running and controversial issue of dust in Tilbury came to the news forefront recently when the council unexpectedly shut down a special 'hotline' set up for residents to report pollution.

Referring to ongoing concerns about dust in the town, she asked whether monitoring information could be made public and noted that around 12,000 people live there.

Cllr Willoughby said monitoring work was continuing and discussions on the findings were due to take place, adding that he would welcome Cllr Shinnick's involvement in future review meetings.

"I would be willing to come along to any meetings," Cllr Shinnick replied.