Issue - meetings

To note the proposed change in the coverage of the Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and make a decision as to whether to act on the advice of DEFRA to reduce the coverage of the Spelthorne AQMA, in line with Local Air Quality Management guidance.

The Committee considered a report from the Principal Pollution Control Officer on the proposed changes to the coverage of the Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in line with improved air quality measurements since the establishment of the AQMA.

The Committee queried what the differences were between options 2 and 3 and were advised that option 2 presented a cautious approach which retained coverage in the south of the borough where it was expected that there would be traffic growth due to the development of Shepperton Studios and the River Thames Scheme. Furthermore, it would have greater coverage of High Streets within the borough. Option 3 would retain extensive coverage in the north of the borough but with less precautionary coverage linked to development. The Committee were informed that on a practical level, the difference would impact planning where air quality surveys were required for developments of a certain size, and areas outside the AQMA would have different thresholds.

The Committee resolved to:

1. Note the proposed change in the coverage of the Air Quality Management Area (AQMA)

2.    Agree Option 2 to recommend adoption of the proposed more conservative modified AQMA boundary detailed in Appendix 2, Figure 2.