Air pollution

Ealing borough was declared an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in December 2000. This was due to levels of particulates and nitrogen dioxide not meeting air quality objectives in many parts of the borough. Air pollutant concentrations above statutory limits pose a threat to human and environmental health.

The council produced an air quality action plan (word) in 2003 and continues to implement projects with the aim of reducing concentrations of air pollutants in the borough to within statutory limits. Concentrations of air pollutants continue to be monitored and reviewed in line with responsibilities under The Environment Act 1995 and other relevant legislation.

National strategies

The first Air Quality Strategy was launched by the government in January 2000. 

Air Quality Strategy 2007 for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
The latest Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland was published in July 2007. It sets out air quality targets for the main air pollutants, which each local authority has to work towards.

Regional strategies

The Mayor of London's Air Quality Strategy
The strategy establishes a strategic Londonwide framework for tackling air pollution (published December 2010).

Local air quality strategies and action plans

The council has developed an air quality action plan (word) that sets out 60 measures to improve air quality in Ealing.

Air quality and planning

Chapter 2.6: Air pollution and quality in Ealing Council's Unitary Development Plan (UDP) relates specifically to air quality considerations for developments. In support of this policy, Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) 3 (pdf) has been prepared.

Review and assessment

Review and assessments of air quality are required to be undertaken by all local authorities. These provide insight and data about developments that have or will have significant impacts on local air quality. All reports are submitted to the GLA and Defra for comment and approval.