The Portfolio Holder for Cleaner & Greener presented the report which summarised the outcome of the public consultation of the Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) 2022- 2027. As a result of the consultation, a number of changes to the draft were proposed and summarised within the report.

The Environmental Health Manager advised that appropriate amendments had been made to the draft AQAP to reflect comments made by stakeholders. Throughout the consultation period, social media was used to promote the consultation including the use of paid promotion.  The District Council received 27 responses to its consultation. A response was received from DEFRA on 18 March 2022 and the AQAP had been amended to reflect these comments.

The Environmental Health Manager answered questions from a Member and explained that there were no coercive elements to the proposed Action Plan.

Members were advised that the AQAP was a working document and would be subject to regular revision and update. A dedicated Air Quality Officer had been recruited to support the Environmental Health Team and Council would be asked to delegate authority to the Environmental Health Manager following consultation with the Portfolio Holder to ensure it remained relevant and effective for its duration.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved: That it be recommended to Council that

a)     the results of the statutory consultation, be noted;

b)     the proposed changes made to the draft Air Quality Action Plan, following consultation, be noted;

c)     the adoption of the Air Quality Action Plan and its publication, be supported; and

d)     the Environmental Health Manager be delegated authority to agree future amendments and changes to the Air Quality Action Plan following consultation with the Portfolio Holder, to ensure it remained relevant and effective for its stated duration.