Gloucester has made significant strides in improving its air quality, leading to the planned removal of pollution monitoring restrictions in key areas. The city previously designated three Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) to monitor pollution levels in Barton Street, Priory Road, and Painswick Road. These zones were established to address concerns over rising pollution, primarily from traffic emissions.
Recent improvements, however, have prompted the council and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) to propose lifting these AQMAs. Defra recommends revoking such designations when they are no longer necessary, signaling a successful reduction in pollution.
The council’s ongoing efforts include a comprehensive review of Gloucester’s Air Quality Action Plan following a recent public consultation. Initiatives include encouraging new developments to install electric vehicle charging points, expanding cycling infrastructure, implementing more one-way traffic systems, and considering the extension of smoke control zones to reduce emissions from chimney fires.
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Breathing polluted air remains one of the most significant environmental health risks, linked to heart disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses, with substantial impacts on the NHS and society. Over the years, cleaner vehicle technologies and shifts in work habits, such as increased remote working, have contributed to a nationwide decline in traffic-related emissions.
Environment Cabinet Member Sebastian Field highlighted the importance of these improvements: “The removal of the AQMAs reflects real progress in our city’s air quality. We will continue to monitor closely and push for further initiatives to make Gloucester greener and healthier for all, especially its most vulnerable residents.”
By maintaining this momentum and collaborating with local partners, Gloucester aims to enhance its environmental health and create a more pleasant living environment for its citizens.