A New Era of Air Quality Considerations in Planning
Defra’s forthcoming guidance on PM2.5 is set to transform the way we approach planning applications. By shifting the focus from mere compliance to proactive mitigation, it emphasises the critical role of air quality experts in the early stages of design and masterplanning.
Understanding PM2.5: The Invisible Threat
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter, tiny airborne particles that are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. They can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing serious health risks. Exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer. Sources of PM2.5 include exhaust, brake, tyre and road wear from vehicles and from domestic combustion, including wood burning.
Why Early Involvement Matters
The new guidance will require planning applications to consider and evidence how development will reduce impact on, and reduce population exposure to, PM2.5 from the outset.
This new approach moves away from a requirement to assess solely whether a scheme is likely to lead to an exceedance of a legal limit and instead ensures that appropriate mitigation measures are implemented from the design stage.
We expect this to help streamline the process for planning, ensuring the minimum amount of pollution is emitted and that exposure is minimised.
The planning guidance is expected to be published in 2025; however, Defra has published interim guidance which advises planning applications to start considering the following:
- How has exposure to PM2.5 been considered when selecting the development site?
- What actions and/or mitigations have been considered to reduce PM2.5 exposure for development users and nearby receptors and to reduce emissions of PM2.5 and its precursors?
How BWB Can Help
Our experienced air quality experts are well-versed in the latest regulations and can provide expert guidance on:
- Site selection: Identifying locations with awareness of local air quality constraints.
- Design and masterplanning: Incorporating air quality considerations into the early stages of development.
- Reduction measures: Implementing effective strategies to reduce emissions and exposure.
- Regulatory compliance: Ensuring your projects meet the requirements of the new guidance.
Don’t Breathe Easy – Act Now
As the guidance will likely be published in early 2025 to meet the new PM2.5 targets, it’s imperative to proactively address air quality concerns now. By partnering with BWB, you can ensure that your developments are not only compliant but also contribute to a cleaner, healthier future.
Contact Amy Van de Sande, Charlotte Smith or Joshua Dickerson today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the evolving landscape of air quality regulations.
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