Blackpool’s air quality to be put ‘under investigation’

Authorities in the seaside resort are looking for a consultant to produce a 10 year plan aimed at tackling atmospheric pollution. 

Blackpool’s air quality is ‘under investigation’, according to a job advertised by council leaders, who are looking to spend £15,000 for experts to analyse air pollution in the seaside resort. 

The Lancashire town, which sits on England’s North West coast, enjoys strong winds from the Irish Sea which can disperse most airborne pollutants, and does not have any significant industry or manufacturing facilities that might lead to lower air quality. Nevertheless, around 75 premature deaths each year in the area are thought to result from atmospheric pollution. 

Tourist traffic is believed to be the biggest issue, which peaks in warmer summer months and also during the autumn’s annual Illuminations light festival. As such, it’s likely this will form the focal point for any strategies that are looking to help improve conditions for residents and visitors alike. 

According to a council document published at the start of the tender process: ‘The Air Quality Strategy should explore the effects of air pollution towards all aspects of life in Blackpool, taking into consideration the social, economic and environmental implications of air pollution, and propose ways to address these issues.’ 

Although air quality monitor readings in Blackpool rarely exceed World Health Organisation guidelines, the town is home to higher-than average rates of several diseases linked to, and worsened by, air pollution. For example, asthma, COPD, and cardiovascular disease. Last year, research was published showing that air pollution is the most likely cause of more severe forms of asthma. 

Image credit: Stephen Iodice