09 Feb 2025
Green councillors have launched a damning attack on SADC’s latest Air Quality Action Plan, warning it may fail to deliver meaningful improvements to local air quality.
A draft plan for tackling air pollution was issued last year, covering a period up to 2029, and included measures including the promotion of low-emission transport and active travel such as cycling and walking.
Air pollution is primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels, including emissions from cars, lorries and buses, and is recognised as a contributing factor in the onset of heart disease, respiratory illnesses and cancer.
As part of these goals, the plan suggested options for tackling emissions from private vehicles, including increasing car parking charges and considering road closures like the much-derided experimental shutting of High Street.
It also called for electric-only buses through the city centre, and reducing domestic combustion through the promotion of Clean Night, supporting households to decarbonise their energy supply, considering the implementation of a district-wide smoke control area, and tackling bonfires and other unauthorised fuels.
Members of the public were asked for their views on the draft AQAP, with the consultation ending on September 27, but as yet a final version of the plan has yet to be published.
Now the Greens have issued their response, which highlights what they say are major gaps in the council’s proposals, particularly around public health integration and the monitoring of dangerous PM2.5 particles – with wood burning alone contributing 27 per cent of these harmful emissions.
Cllr Matt Fisher said: “The current draft lacks clear timelines and measurable targets. Without these, we risk failing to deliver meaningful improvements to local air quality.”
Key recommendations include:
– Creating a real-time air quality alert system;
– Restricting resident permits for diesel cars;
– Implementing Clean Air Zones;
– Better monitoring around schools and the strategic rail freight terminal site in Park Street;
– Expanding smoke control areas;
– Improving cycling infrastructure.
The Greens’ response also emphasised the need for better transparency, recommending a dedicated air quality website and clear communication about poor air quality days.
Matt added: “Air pollution affects everyone in St Albans. We need an action plan with teeth – one that sets clear deadlines and measurable outcomes for reducing pollution from all sources.”
The Greens are also calling for closer collaboration between public health teams and air quality officials, with clear links between air quality actions and local health priorities.
