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Air Quality Assessment: proposed updates for LLPAR consultation 2025

Published: Updated: Subject: Planning checklist, Planning

Planning application - local requirement (draft update)

When the requirement applies

Current text 

The requirement applies to all major developments inside or adjacent to an AQMA (Air Quality Management Area) (Major applications are developments of 10 or more dwellings, residential sites of 0.5 ha or more, and other buildings with a floor space of 1,000m2  or on sites of 1 ha or more, and all waste applications).

Proposed update
The requirement applies to all major developments where these are screened against the criteria in table 6.2 (page 21) of the IAQM planning guidance to determine whether an Air Quality Assessment is required. 

Rationale
To ensure that major development outside an AQMA which may also negatively impact air quality will be appropriately assessed and considered in decision making, as is currently the case for major applications within an AQMA. 

What the assessment should include

This assessment should consist of a report indicating the change in air quality which will result from the proposed development, and outlining appropriate mitigation measures as necessary.

The content of an air quality assessment will vary depending on the nature of the proposed development. However, as a minimum it should include the following information:

  • Relevant details of the proposed development
  • Description of the relevant air quality standards and objectives
  • Details of the assessment method
  • Results of the modelling assessment
  • Summary of the assessment results

View in detail the requirements of an Air Quality Assessment in the IAQM planning guidance.

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