Brighton & Hove Council launches eight-week Air Quality Action Plan consultation

170 premature deaths are being recorded each year in the East Sussex city as a result of air pollution, convincing authorities to update current policies.

Brighton & Hove City Council has launched an eight-week Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) consultation, and is inviting input from the public and external organisations on what steps should be taken to reduce harmful atmospheric pollution. 

Currently, it is believed around 170 deaths attributed to air quality in the area occur each year. The consultation period will end on 11th July, although local politicians have already identified several areas where there is room for improvement. 

These include increasing the amount of active travel that takes place within the city. Residents will also be encouraged to switch to ultra-low and zero emission vehicles, while air pollution monitoring will be increased in a bid to make the public more aware of the problem, and what they can do to help overcome it. 

Steps will also be made to reduce the emissions from buildings and new developments, with partnerships set to be created with private parties to help deliver. Brighton & Hove has already trialled and rolled out several initiatives to lower, including lampost electric vehicle charging devices, parking discounts for low-polluting cars, and becoming a car-free city by 2023.

Nevertheless, in 2019 researchers found that while air quality in the city was improving nitrogen dioxide levels were still illegal. The first AQAP was introduced in 2006, and then updated in 2011 and 2015. Once implemented, the 2022 plan will remain in place until 2027. Individuals and organisations looking to participate in the consultation can find more information on the official Brighton & Hove City Council website. 

Image credit: Evgeny Klimenchenko