What is central government doing?
The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is responsible for ensuring that these limits are not exceeded in England. DEFRA published an Air Quality Strategy – Framework for local authority delivery in 2023 to help achieve long-term air quality goals, including new targets for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and reduce levels of roadside nitrogen dioxide. The framework enables and supports local authorities to deliver for their communities and contribute to the statutory requirements of the Environment Act 1995 as amended by the Environment Act 2021. Air Quality Strategy (2023)
What is local government doing?
The Environment Act of 1995 requires local authorities to assess and report annually on air quality in their area. The reports must assess whether the statutory health-based objectives are being met. Where the objectives are not being met a Local Authority has to produce an Air Quality Action Plan to improve local air quality.
View the Reports and Action Plans
Local Highway Authorities also produce Local Transport Plans, which set out local strategies and investment plans, including to improve walking, cycling and public transport.
West Sussex
Brighton and Hove
East Sussex
Sussex Air has produced guidance for developers on how to mitigate potential impacts from proposed local developments in Sussex.