Our AQMAs have been declared because the annual average level of nitrogen dioxide is more than the target.
- This pollutant is related to the combustion of fossil fuels, which includes vehicle engines.
- For those we have declared, there is often a combination of:
- high traffic volumes;
- and buildings located close to the roadside which can hinder the dispersion of exhaust fumes.
We made an action plan that shows the steps we will try to take to reduce levels of nitrogen dioxide. This plan is due to be revised.
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) includes the principle that:
- All new development should be sustainable and not greatly affect or be affected by air pollution.
- This includes the impact of traffic.
The NPPF makes more specific requirements for developments within AQMAs and to meet certain European air quality targets.
We work with other West Yorkshire Local Authorities to make common guidance for developers to meet current and new concerns.
The eight AQMAs the we have declared
| AQMA | Details |
|---|---|
| Brighouse | |
| Hebden Bridge | |
| Hipperholme | |
| Luddendenfoot | |
| New Bank (Halifax) | |
| Salterhebble and Huddersfield Road | |
| Sowerby Bridge | |
| Stump Cross |
For more details about each AQMA, visit: UK AIR (DEFRA).