Cheltenham launches air quality consultation

Residents asked for views on measures to reduce air quality in Gloucestershire town

Cheltenham borough council is seeking views from residents on a host of proposed measures aimed at reducing air pollution in the Gloucestershire town.

A consultation launched on the measures today (January 20) includes several options being considered by the council to tackle the council’s air quality problems. Residents have been given until February 28 to respond to the consultation.

Cheltenham is also proposing measures to increase the use of public transport

Among the proposals are highways improvements which would see alterations to some roads in busy areas of the town to remove through traffic.

Other proposals include improving signage and routing for cycling and pedestrians, promotion of park and ride services and school travel grants to encourage a greater use of public transport.

According to the council the primary local sources of air pollution are from road transport, with additional small contributions from domestic, commercial and industrial heating sources.

Due to the slightly increased levels of nitrogen dioxide in the town, Cheltenham is an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and the council has a statutory duty to develop an Air Quality Action Plan.

Health

Paul Scott, the council’s contaminated land officer, said: “Everyone has a right to live, work and relax in a healthy environment which includes having a good quality air to breath. Good air quality is an important factor in protecting people’s health. Evidence suggests that poor air quality is a major cause of death in the UK with around 29,000 occurring annually.

“As part of the development of an Air Quality Action Plan, the council is required to undergo a consultation in order to engage, inform and seek views on the list of proposed measures that could be implemented. This will ensure that the best possible and most cost-effective outcomes are agreed upon prior to implementation.”

Councillor Peter Jeffries, Cheltenham’s cabinet member for housing, safety and communities, said: “Air quality is important for residents and visitors to Cheltenham and any improvements we can make should be welcomed. I would urge residents to let us know their opinions.”