Air Quality Assessment - Local Validation List directory

Item
Air Quality Assessment
Driver

Local requirement.

The National Planning Policy Framework and The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010.

When required

Typically a detailed air quality assessment will only apply to major applications which trigger the need for a Transport Assessment or introduce polluting plant. Excluded are reserved matters applications where an assessment has been submitted and considered at outline stage.

However if material circumstances have changed since the grant of outline permission then an updated assessment may be required.

An exposure assessment is likely to be necessary where a development is proposed that introduces new receptors to an area that has existing poor air quality.

Further information and guidance

An assessment will be required where the:

  • proposed development is within or adjacent to an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA)
  • development requires an EIA and air quality is to be considered
  • development could itself result in the designation of a AQMA or introduce new point sources of air pollution
  • existing air quality may have a material effect on the proposed development (for example, a development adjacent to the A4)
  • development includes significant demolition and construction works
  • combustion units with thermal input >300kWh, short term power generation units regulated by the EA, or biomass boiler applications, are proposed
  • the development could significantly affect traffic in the immediate vicinity of the proposed development site or further afield
  • the proposed construction or development could have a material effect on a neighbouring site sensitive to air quality
  • where biodiversity is affected particularly where there is impact upon international obligations under the Habitats Directive.

Specific thresholds are specified within the following guidance:

Assessments should be proportionate to the nature and scale of development proposed and the level of concern about air quality, and because of this are likely to specific to the location. Any assessment should be carried out by a suitably qualified environmental scientist.