Decision details

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet agree:

1)    That the air quality action plan: pre-consultation version be sent to the Greater London Authority (GLA) for initial review, in accordance with requirements.

2)    That any changes from the Council’s liaison with the GLA on the plan be delegated to the Director of Planning & Sustainable Growth to make, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for the Community and Environment

3)    Subject to the above, the publication of the final draft version, upon sign-off by the Cabinet Member for Community & Environment, for public consultation lasting a minimum of 6 weeks and furthermore, agree to receive a report back to duly consider the consultation and ultimately the plan’s adoption.

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Community & Environment introduced the Air Quality Action Plan for a pre-consultation review with the Greater London Authority (GLA). This review would be followed by a public consultation, leading to the adoption of a new plan from 2025 to 2030. It was noted that the report included progress in reducing air pollution against UK national targets, although levels remained above World Health Organisation guidelines. The Cabinet Member cautioned that some data, particularly traffic-related emissions, should be viewed in the context of the COVID period, which reduced travel, and post-COVID changes in working practices, which had also altered travel patterns.

It was noted that the Council monitored ultra-fine particulates, which are particularly relevant due to aviation fuel from Heathrow Airport and any proposed expansion plans. Furthermore, that the Council holds £3.8 million in Section 106 funds for air quality projects, which will be used to benefit residents.

The Leader of the Council noted that residents, especially in the South of the Borough, would be reassured by the inclusion of ultra-fine particulate monitoring and that robust air quality monitoring was essential, particularly concerning the traffic generated by Heathrow, both road and aviation.

Alternative options considered and rejected

None.