Decision:
RESOLVED – That the Air Quality Action Plan 2018-2023 be adopted.
REASON FOR DECISION:
To comply with statutory duties to have an up-to-date Plan. The revised Plan will demonstrate the high priority and action taken to ensure good air quality for the Borough of Tunbridge Wells.
Minutes:
Councillor Dr Basu and Karin Grey, Sustainability Manager, introduced the report set out in the agenda.
The discussion included consideration of the following additional matters:
· Air quality had improved since the last plan in 2014.
· The actions in the plan were based on levels of Nitrogen Dioxide but the council also monitored particulates of 10 microns which could affect health.
· Small particulates of 2.5 microns were not required to be monitored as these were monitored nationally. The Borough was not exceeding the World Health Organisation levels and any actions to reduce Nitrogen Dioxide or particulates of 10 microns would also reduce small particulates of 2.5 microns.
· The plan could be more ambitious in some areas and initiatives to encourage more walking and cycling were supported.
· Cabinet members and senior officers would be visiting a sustainable transport model in Waltham Forest to investigate potential best practice.
· Good air quality was good for tourism and more walking and cycling would improve health.
RESOLVED – That the Air Quality Action Plan 2018-2023 be adopted.
REASON FOR DECISION:
To comply with statutory duties to have an up-to-date Plan. The revised Plan will demonstrate the high priority and action taken to ensure good air quality for the Borough of Tunbridge Wells.
Supporting documents: