Air Quality

The National Air Quality Strategy was published in 1997 with the aim to map out the future of ambient air quality policy in the UK. In order to meet this aim the National Air Quality Strategy outlined recommended maximum levels of eight pollutants which had to be obtained nationally by 2005. The eight pollutants being; Benzene, 1,3 Butandiene, Carbon Monoxide, Sulphur Dioxide, Lead, Particulates, Nitrogen Dioxide and Ozone. The maximum levels have been devised by the Expert Panel on Air Quality Standards (EPAQS) based on medical and scientific evidence.

Air quality is an issue of sustainability it has a massive effect on human health, the natural and man made environment and the climate.

What is NW Leicestershires role?

Within the National Air Quality Strategy all local authorities have to assess the present and future air quality of their area in relation to the requirements of the National Air Quality Strategy and identify the main sources of the pollutants affecting air quality.

The National Air Quality Strategy sets out three stages of review and assessment for local authorities to follow.

Stage One

Involves a simple analysis of each pollutant. If significant quantities of one or more of the pollutants are found stage two is put into action.

Stage Two

A more detailed analysis is carried out using existing data in order to estimate maximum concentrations of air pollution within the district. An assessment regarding the issue of attainment of the objectives is also carried out. If it is unlikely that the required levels will be met stage three is put into place.

Stage Three

Involves a detailed study of specific locations possibly resulting in the area becoming an Air Quality Management Area which involves a 12 month assessment to establish exact sources and the extent to which the national objectives will be overreached.

Annual Review and Assessment Reports

The Review and Assesment reports are avilable on the Local Air Quality Review and Assessment webpage

Air Quality Management Areas (AQMA's) In North West Leicestershire

Currently there are 5 AQMA's in North West Leicestershire. More information is available on the respective AQMA's webpage
these are

• M1 Mole Hill Kegworth
• High Street Kegworth
• Stephenson Way/Bardon Road Coalville
• High Street/Bondgate Castle Donington
• Copt Oak Road Copt Oak

Air Quality Monitoring In North West Leicestershire

The main method of air quality monitoring in the District is the use of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) Diffusion tubes. More information on this method of monitoring and data from the district can be found on the NO₂ Diffusion tube page

UKCoal currently undertake particulate monitoring in Ravenstone in relation to their Environmental permit at Longmoor Colliery. More in formation can be found on the Longmoor Colliery monitoring data page