Air quality management area (AQMA) - Gosport Road, Fareham

The 2005 detailed assessment report indicated that levels of the air pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO2) – a gas that can affect the respiratory system – are slightly above national standards on a section of Gosport Road, Fareham. As a result, part of it was declared an air quality management area (AQMA) on 1 April 2006. You can see a map of the area covered by the AQMA and information about the order at the Civic Offices, Civic Way, Fareham, Hampshire.

Air quality levels are not a measure of impact on individual health but we are required by the Government to declare an AQMA and consider ways of reducing levels of nitrogen dioxide in and around the area. We have developed an air quality action plan (AQAP) to improve air quality. Its success will depend on how we communicate with local residents, the business community, local public transport operators and the media etc. Through the Local transport plan 2006 –11, other local agencies are helping with the action plan. Solutions include developing a bus rapid transit system (BRTS), lower emission buses, car sharing and walking to school schemes.

We continue to monitor nitrogen dioxide levels in the AQMA using an automatic continuous monitor and passive diffusion tubes on lampposts and on houses. We will also further assess air quality in the AQMA within the next 12 months to help the action plan. We have written to residents in the AQMA to explain the situation and let them know that we are aiming to improve air quality over the next few years.

We can amend or revoke an existing AQMA order at any time. New developments can have a significant impact on air quality. If we receive a planning application in or near the AQMA that has potential to significantly increase road traffic, we will examine it for air quality implications and appropriate conditions may be placed on any consent.

For more information, contact us on 01329 236100 or at regulatory@fareham.gov.uk.