Air Quality Planning - Leigh-on-Sea

Share this story!

Leigh On Sea News: Air Quality Planning – SOUTHEND City Council is inviting residents and businesses to share their views on the draft Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) and help shape the future of the city’s air quality.

Air Quality Planning - SOUTHEND City Council is inviting residents and businesses to share their views on the draft Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) and help shape the future of the city’s air quality.

SOUTHEND City Council is inviting residents and businesses to share their views on the draft Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) and help shape the future of the city’s air quality.

The Council, who are responsible for monitoring and managing air quality in the city, are seeking residents’ input on the draft AQPA, which is being refreshed this year. The current strategy was implemented in 2016, due to high levels of nitrogen dioxide found in local air, a pollutant harmful to public health.

At that time, the council declared the area around the A127’s Bell Junction, and Cuckoo Corner an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA).

Since the AQMA has been in place, nitrogen dioxide levels have decreased by 69% but further improvements are required. The council has developed a refreshed Air Quality Action Plan AQAP to continue reducing pollution levels in this area.

Improving air quality is considered vital for the health and wellbeing of residents and the environment. By participating in this consultation, residents can help shape the actions taken to ensure cleaner air for everyone.

A spokesperson said: “Your views and suggestions will be instrumental in refining our strategies and achieving our air quality goals.

The consultation runs until 5pm Wednesday 12 February 2025 and is open to all interested parties. To take part in the survey visit: https://yoursay.southend.gov.uk/air-quality-action-plan-the-bell-junction.

Coun Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said: “Our new draft AQMP, has some great ideas to improve the air quality in the areas around the Bell Junction and Cuckoo Corner, and in order to move forward, we are seeking residents and businesses views before finalising the action plan.

“We value your opinions and encourage you to participate in the consultation. Feedback from the public will be extremely helpful in reviewing and improving the many ideas put forward.

“Once the consultation has finished, we can refine and improve the plan to ensure it meets the needs of our city.”

about author

Editor