Air pollution is associated with a number of adverse health impacts. It is recognised as a contributing factor in the onset of heart disease and cancer. Additionally, air pollution particularly affects the most vulnerable in society: children, the elderly, and those with existing heart and lung conditions. There is also often a strong correlation with equalities issues because areas with poor air quality are also often less affluent areas [Public Health England. Air Quality: A Briefing for Directors of Public Health, 2017] and [Defra. Air quality and social deprivation in the UK: an environmental inequalities analysis, 2006].

The mortality burden of air pollution within the UK is equivalent to 28,000 to 36,000 deaths at typical ages [Defra. Air quality appraisal: damage cost guidance, July 2021], with a total estimated healthcare cost to the NHS and social care of £157 million in 2017 [Public Health England. Estimation of costs to the NHS and social care due to the health impacts of air pollution: summary report, May 2018].

Road traffic is the main source of air pollution within the Borough and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is the primary pollutant of concern. Nitrogen dioxide is a brown gas with the chemical formula NO₂. It is chemically related to nitric oxide and together NO and NO₂ are known as NO_X. NO_X is released into the atmosphere when fuels are burned, for example petrol or diesel in a car engine, or natural gas in a domestic central heating boiler. NO₂can affect our health and evidence indicates high levels can inflame the airways of our lungs, and over the long term can affect how well our lungs work. The concentration of NO₂ is measured as micrograms per cubic metre of air (µg m^-3) and to protect health the Government has set air quality standards. The hourly objective which is the concentration of NO₂ in the air averaged over a period of one hour, aims to ensure we are not exposed to high concentrations for short periods of time. The annual objective which is the concentration of NO₂ in the air averaged over a period of one year, aims to protect us over the longer term. Further details on the air quality standards can be found in Appendix E: Summary of Air Quality Objectives in England.

Road traffic is the largest source of NO_x emissions in the UK. NO_x emissions from burning fossil fuels are mainly as NO. However, some sources including diesel vehicles (particularly when moving slowly) can emit a lot of NO_x as NO₂ and these primary emissions of NO₂ can lead to high concentrations at the roadside. NO₂ is also formed in the atmosphere when there is a chemical reaction between NO and ozone, and this is known as secondary NO₂.

Rushcliffe Borough Council currently undertakes air quality monitoring for NO₂ at 32 monitoring sites across the Borough. Thirty of these locations are passive sites, monitoring NO₂ using diffusion tubes which take samples over a one-month period (approximately) and are useful for assessing the annual objective of 40µg m^-3. Diffusion tubes provide an inexpensive way of monitoring air quality at multiple sites and provide general indicators of concentrations and trends of pollutants over a period of time.

Rushcliffe Borough Council also have two continuous analysers (automatic) where air is continuously pumped into the analyser and the level of NO₂ recorded. These provide more accurate data on NO₂ concentrations however they are a more expensive way of monitoring air quality.

Rushcliffe Borough Council currently have two active Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) for NO₂. An AQMA is an area where air pollutant concentrations exceed or are likely to exceed the relevant air quality objectives. AQMAs are declared for specific pollutants and objectives and within Rushcliffe both were declared for NO₂ and exceedance of the annual mean concentration objective of 40µg m^-3. The location of the AQMAs can be seen at Defra UK Air website. Monitoring is undertaken in both AQMAs using both diffusion tubes (non-automatic or passive) and a continuous analyser (automatic).

Within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge the highest NO₂ annual mean concentration recorded in 2021 across all locations was 30µg m^-3 at the diffusion tube location TBI. The continuous monitoring data for 2021 recorded a NO₂ annual mean concentration of 29µg m^-3_. Therefore, the NO₂ annual mean concentrations were all well below the air quality objective. There were also no exceedances of the NO₂ hourly limit of 200µg m^-3 and therefore no exceedance of the 1-hour mean air quality objective. The data continue the downward trend in the NO₂ annual mean concentration evident over the past five years although there was a slight increase at all 8 monitoring locations (ranging from 0.5 to 10%) in 2021 in comparison to 2020. During 2020, NO₂ annual concentration in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge was significantly reduced (by up to 27%) in comparison to previous year due to the COVID-19 pandemic national and regional lockdowns and the associated impact on traffic levels. The lockdowns and restrictions continued into 2021 with a third national lockdown from January until March 2021 when England began a phased exit from lockdown. The increase in the NO₂ annual mean concentrations in 2021 when compared with 2020 is most likely due to the easing of lockdown restrictions and the associated impact on traffic flow.

In AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road a maximum NO₂ annual mean concentration of 33µg m^-3 was recorded by the continuous monitor. This is well below the air quality objective. Similar to AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge there was a slight increase (ranging from 6 to 12%) in the measured NO₂ annual mean concentrations recorded across the 3 monitoring locations in 2021 when compared with 2020 although the data continues the downward trend when viewed over the past five years. Again, this is most likely attributable to the impact of the COVID-19 national and regional lockdowns on traffic levels during 2020 and 2021.There were no exceedances of the NO₂hourly limit of 200µg m^-3 and therefore no exceedance of the 1-hour mean air quality objective.

In general, over the last five year period monitoring data shows a decline in the NO₂concentrations across the Borough. Across the monitoring network the NO₂ annual mean concentrations recorded in 2021 remain well below the levels recorded prior to the pandemic and it remains to be seen if lifestyle changes required to deal with the pandemic will have a long-term impact on population behaviour, for example, if significant numbers of people continue to work from home this may reduce traffic congestion at peak times. It is reasonable to assume the NO₂ annual mean concentrations recorded in 2021 continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and it is therefore difficult to draw robust conclusions from the dataset for this year.

In 2021 Rushcliffe Borough Council published an updated Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) which outlines the action we (Rushcliffe Borough Council and our partners) will take to improve air quality in the Borough over the next five years. Prior to 2021 there were two AQAPs – one specific to each of our AQMAs - and whilst the two have now been consolidated into one AQAP, there remains (where appropriate) measures specific to each of the AQMAs. In the AQAP actions have been developed under nine broad topics:

Traffic management;
Transport planning and infrastructure;
Policy guidance and development control;
Alternatives to private vehicle use;
Promoting low emission transport;
Promoting travel alternatives;
Public information; and
Vehicle fleet efficiency.

The AQAP priorities are:

To continue to monitor nitrogen dioxide levels at AQMA No1 Trent Bridge and at AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road and to revoke the AQMAs (in consultation with Defra) if and when there is sufficient robust data to demonstrate concentrations are well below the air quality standard objectives[Air Quality Standards 2010]for a period of four to five years;
To work with Nottinghamshire County Council, as the highway authority at the location of AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge, to implement the relevant actions set out within the AQAP to manage traffic volume and flow and enable residents to make smarter travel choices;
To work with National Highways, as the highway authority at the location of AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road to implement the relevant actions set out within the AQAP to manage traffic volume and flow; and
Rushcliffe Borough Council will continue to work with partners to actively promote policies to encourage an increased use of low emission travel options in the Borough; and to secure funding for the installation of a publicly accessible vehicle charging network infrastructure across our estate.

The aim of these priorities is to maintain sustained compliance with the air quality standards, to encourage a shift to low emission transport options and smarter travel choices to facilitate and encourage walking, cycling and public transport use, all of which have co-benefits on health and well-being.

Actions to Improve Air Quality

Whilst air quality has improved significantly in recent decades, and will continue to improve due to national policy decisions, there are some areas where local action is needed to improve air quality further.

The 2019 Clean Air Strategy (Defra. Clean Air Strategy, 2019) sets out the case for action, with goals to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. The Road to Zero (DfT. The Road to Zero: Next steps towards cleaner road transport and delivering our Industrial Strategy, July 2018) sets out the approach to reduce exhaust emissions from road transport through a number of mechanisms; this is extremely important given that the majority of Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) are designated due to elevated concentrations heavily influenced by transport emissions.

As traffic is the main cause of the air pollution within the Borough the core actions continue to be the integration of measures within the Local Transport Plan (LTP) which is implemented by Nottinghamshire County Council Transport Planners and National Highways. In addition, Rushcliffe Borough Council will continue to review planning applications for potential adverse impacts on air quality and continue to promote air quality issues through our membership of NPWG and EMAQN.

In addition to developing and implementing the AQAP the Environmental Health Service continues to work with colleagues in the Planning Service to ensure air quality issues are considered as part of the policy and forward planning process, as well as during the development control process. Policy 41 of the Local Plan Part 2: Land and Planning Policies (adopted in October 2019) explicitly addresses air quality and development proposals that have the potential to adversely impact on air quality or are sensitive to poor air quality. Details of the Local Plan can be found on our webpages RBC Local Plan. During the development process both construction and operational impacts are considered and where appropriate conditions imposed, or the application is amended to reflect any concerns identified.

During 2021 there were a number of applications relating to proposed residential and commercial developments within or in the vicinity of the AQMAs where air quality assessments were required. These include

Construction of mixed-use development comprising a ground floor unit (Use Class E) with one-bed and two-bed apartments on floors above;
Discharge of air quality related planning condition associated with the redevelopment of a former car sales garage to retirement living apartments at a site on Loughborough Road within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge; and
Outline planning application for sustainable urban extension at land east of Gamston and North of Tollerton comprising 2250 dwellings, primary school and a local centre.

Works are also progressing on a number of previously permitted housing developments at various locations across the Borough, including Ruddington, Edwalton, Keyworth, Radcliffe on Trent, Newton, Clifton and East Leake. In addition to considering potential air quality impacts as part of the development process the Environmental Health Service are involved in ensuring effective measures to manage any fugitive dust emissions are in place during the construction works.

Although not located in or close to an AQMA there is significant development planned for the site of the Ratcliffe on Soar Power Station (located in the South of the Borough) with a vision to transform one of the UK’s last coal-fired power stations into a technology, advanced manufacturing and energy hub. The power station is due to cease electricity generation by September 2024 and works are ongoing to facilitate redevelopment of the wider power station site. Stakeholders were consulted between November 2021 and January 2022 on plans for a Local Development Order (LDO) that could assist with propelling any plans for the site in line with independent planning processes. It is anticipated detailed planning documents including an Environment Impact Assessment will be submitted over the coming months.

Rushcliffe Borough Council has a requirement for electric vehicle charging points (EVCP) to be installed on all residential and commercial developments (where possible) as part of any planning approval.

The road network within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge is managed by Nottinghamshire County Council and the core actions continue to be the integration of measures within the Local Transport Plan (LTP) which is implemented by Nottinghamshire County Council and include

Continued traffic control and management in the area to optimise traffic flow and minimise congestion;
Cycling and walking infrastructure improvements;
Public transport improvements, including the introduction of a low emission bus fleet; and
Promotion of active travel alternatives.

The A52, the road associated with AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road is managed by National Highways. As part of the government’s road investment strategy several junctions along the A52, including the Stragglethorpe Road junction were identified for improvement to reduce congestion and provide capacity for more traffic from local developments. During 2020 National Highways (formerly Highways England) determined the most appropriate solution to help reduce queuing and delays at the Stragglethorpe Road junction is to implement a U-turn ban. A notice of intention to make an order to stop the U-turn movement was made in November 2020 and the subsequent order to remove the U-turn movement was brought into force in May 2022. Improvement work at the nearby Gamston roundabout commenced in 2021 and continue into 2022. These works are to widen all approaches to the roundabout, install new traffic lights and traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing and a dedicated bus lane to reduce traffic congestion and queuing and improve safety. As the Gamston roundabout and Stragglethorpe junction are in relatively close proximity the timing of the traffic signals at the Stragglethorpe junction following the removal of the U-turn movement will remain unchanged until the Gamston roundabout works are completed which is expected to be early 2023.

At a strategic level the Rushcliffe Borough Council Corporate Strategy (2019-2023) includes ‘The Environment’ as one of the four priorities. In March 2020 the Council made a commitment to work towards being carbon neutral for its own operations by 2030. The Council continues to work to implement the Carbon Management Plan 2020 which sets out the measures to be taken across key areas, including property assets, fleet, and policy & regulation. The implementation of some of these proposed changes will have a co-benefit of improving air quality across the Borough, for example, measures to accelerate the shift to low carbon transport across the Council fleet, promotion of active travel and the promotion of carbon reduction policies and guidance to developers.

Rushcliffe Borough Council seeks to reduce impacts on air quality and the environment in their ongoing capital projects. During 2021 works started on the construction of Rushcliffe Oaks which is a new crematorium facility and community space located in Stragglethorpe near Cotgrave. The modern contemporary building will provide an environmentally conscious building and memorial gardens that are sensitive to its surroundings. To ensure the facility is as energy efficient as possible and to help meet the Council’s target to be carbon neutral in its operations by 2030 an electric cremator will be installed. Recent research undertaken by Coventry University provides a comparison of gas and electric cremator emissions in the UK. The study undertaken as part of degree level thesis focuses on carbon dioxide (CO₂) and NO_x emissions and concludes an electric cremator produces 50-80% less CO₂ emissions and 33% less NO_x emissions [Copeland B (2021) A comparison of gas and electric cremator emissions in the UK. A dissertation submitted to the School of Energy, Construction and Environment, Faculty of Engineering, Environment and Computing, Coventry University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Geography BSc (Hons)].

In 2019 the Air Quality Strategy for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 2020-2030 [Air Quality Strategy for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 2020-2030 (2020)] was launched with an overall strategic vision for all of Nottinghamshire residents and visitors to have clean air that allows them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. The strategy was prepared via a collaborative effort between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the Nottinghamshire Borough/District Authorities, including Rushcliffe Borough Council. The Strategy can be accessed via our webpage Air quality - Rushcliffe Borough Council.

This vision aligns with the ambition in the National Clean Air Strategy [Defra, Clean Air Strategy (2019)] to protect the nation’s health and the government’s plans for reducing vehicle emissions. It also recognises that implementation of the strategy will have local system-wide co-benefits such as increased physical activity through active travel, reduced congestion, connecting people in their communities through better design of place, improvements in environmental quality and climate change mitigation.

The Air Quality Strategy for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 2020-2030 recognises the importance of the local Air Quality Action Plans, developed for the AQMAs across the City and County, as a key component in the delivery of the strategy in terms of reducing health risk and impacts in the most polluted areas.

Conclusions and Priorities

The air quality monitoring data for 2021 shows there were no exceedances of the NO₂ annual mean concentration air quality objective at any of the monitoring locations across the Borough.

Although data indicates a slight increase in NO₂ annual mean concentrations when compared with 2020 this is likely to be a result of the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions during 2021. NO₂ annual mean concentrations remain below the levels recorded prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the 2021 data follows the general downward trend observed over the past five years the scale of the decline continues to be influenced by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns on roadside emissions. In AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge and AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road the increase in NO₂ annual mean concentrations increase when compared to 2020 ranged from 2-14% and 6-13%, respectively. This data needs to be considered in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the decrease in NO₂ annual mean concentrations in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge of 17-29% in 2020; and 24-35% in AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.

Over the past five years the NO₂ annual mean concentration in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge has been in the region of 36-37µg m^-3 i.e. below the air quality objective of 40µg m^-3. In 2020 there was a sharp decline to 27µg m^-3 at the location of the continuous monitor and a slight increase to 29µg m^-3 at the same location in 2021. If the consistent downward trend continues and concentrations remain in the region of 10% below the air quality objective we will seek to revoke the AQMA within the next year.

In AQMA No 1/2011 the NO₂ annual mean concentration has been hovering around the air quality objective of 40µg m^-3 for the past five years when it has ranged between 38µg m^-3in 2017 and 41µg m^-3in 2019. In 2020 there was a decline in the NO₂ annual mean concentration to 31µg m^-3with a slight increase to 33µg m^-3 at the same location in 2021. As the long-term impact (if any) of the COVID-19 pandemic on traffic levels and associated roadside emissions remains to be seen we will continue to monitor in the AQMA and review its status annually.

During 2021 we published an updated AQAP which sets out how Rushcliffe Borough Council and its partners will seek to improve air quality over the next five years. To achieve this the revised AQAP consolidates the previous two AQAPs and sets out a comprehensive range of measures to be implemented by ourselves and our partners – Nottinghamshire County Council Transport Planners and National Highways.

Over the coming year we will continue to monitor NO₂ annual mean concentrations across the Borough and work towards the implementation of the measures contained in the AQAP.

Local Engagement and How to Get Involved

As indicated above, during 2021 Rushcliffe Borough Council published an updated AQAP which was developed in conjunction with our partners (Nottinghamshire County Council Transport Planners and National Highways). As part of this process, we engaged with a range of bodies, including the Environment Agency, neighbouring authorities, Parish Councils and Nottinghamshire County Council Public Health. A public consultation exercise was undertaken and it was encouraging to see a high level of engagement with 63 residents responding either via the public consultation survey or via email.

Rushcliffe Borough Council provides residents with information on reducing their impact on the environment and air quality via links from its website Transport - Rushcliffe Borough Council where there is signposting to cycling and walking initiatives and information on public transport and greener car travel, including car sharing. There is also information available on cycling and walking initiatives via the Nottinghamshire County Council cycling and walking webpage.

Any new planning proposals where consideration of potential air quality impacts may be required are available for consultation through the planning process. The public can view and provide comments on submitted air quality assessments.

Likewise, under the environmental permitting regime changes to existing or new permitted processes are subject to public consultation and we will ensure public engagement as well as statutory consultee engagement.

To get involved in improving air quality within the Borough the public can contact the Environmental Health Service – details are available at the front of this report.

The Local Transport Plan (LTP) is implemented by County Council Local Transport Planners who can be contacted via the Nottinghamshire County Council website or Local Transport Plans and Development Team, Nottinghamshire County Council, County Hall, West Bridgford Nottingham NG2 7QP; Tel: 0300 500 8080.

Further information on the A52 junction improvements can be obtained from National Highways. Tel: 0300 123 5000. The 2022 Spring newsletter was published at the end of May 2022.

Local Responsibilities and Commitment

This ASR was prepared by the Environmental Health Department of Rushcliffe Borough Council with the support and agreement of the following departments:

Development Control;
Communities;
Human Resources; and
The Contract Hub.

This ASR has been approved by:

David Banks

Director - Neighbourhoods and Deputy Chief Executive

If you have any comments on this ASR please send them to the Environmental Health Department at:

Rushcliffe Borough Council

Rushcliffe Arena

Rugby Road

West Bridgford

NG2 7YG

Tel: 0115 9819911

E: environmentalhealth@rushcliffe.gov.uk

1 Local Air Quality Management

This report provides an overview of air quality in Rushcliffe Borough Council during 2021. It fulfils the requirements of Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) as set out in Part IV of the Environment Act (1995) and the relevant Policy and Technical Guidance documents.

The LAQM process places an obligation on all local authorities to regularly review and assess air quality in their areas, and to determine whether or not the air quality objectives are likely to be achieved. Where an exceedance is considered likely the local authority must declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and prepare an Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) setting out the measures it intends to put in place in pursuit of the objectives. This Annual Status Report (ASR) is an annual requirement showing the strategies employed by Rushcliffe Borough Council to improve air quality and any progress that has been made.

The statutory air quality objectives applicable to LAQM in England are presented in Table E.1.

2 Actions to Improve Air Quality

2.1 Air Quality Management Areas

Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) are declared when there is an exceedance or likely exceedance of an air quality objective. After declaration, the authority should prepare an Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) within 12 months setting out measures it intends to put in place in pursuit of compliance with the objectives.

A summary of AQMAs declared by Rushcliffe Borough Council can be found below. This shows the descriptions of the two AQMAs that are currently designated within Rushcliffe Borough Council.

AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge covers an area of West Bridgford, including Lady Bay Bridge, Radcliffe Road, Trent Bridge and Loughborough Road junctions. This AQMA was declared in 2005 due to a NO₂annual mean concentration of 47µg m^-3which is an exceedance of the Air Quality Standard objective (AQS) of 40µg m^-3. Air quality monitoring is undertaken at a number of locations within the AQMA via a continuous monitor (active monitoring) and a series of diffusion tubes (passive monitoring).

AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road at Radcliffe on Trent is located at the Stragglethorpe junction of the A52 dual carriageway which is one of the main easterly routes into/out of Nottingham. The general aspect is open with a small group of residential properties in one area adjacent to the junction. This AQMA was declared in 2011 due to a NO₂annual mean concentration of 50.5µg m^-3.

Appendix D: Maps of Monitoring Locations and AQMAs provides maps of both AQMAs and also the air quality monitoring locations in relation to the AQMAs. The air quality objectives pertinent to the current AQMA designations are as follows:

NO₂ annual mean.

We propose to explore the revocation of AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge over the coming year.

Declared Air Quality Management Areas

AQMA Name - AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge

Date of Declaration: 01/09/2005

Pollutants and Air Quality Objectives: NO₂ Annual Mean

Description: An area including Lady Bay Bridge/ Radcliffe Road/ Trent Bridge/ Loughborough Road junctions in West Bridgford.

Is air quality in the AQMA influenced by roads controlled by Highways England? No

Level of Exceedance - Declaration: 47µg m^-3

Level of Exceedance - Current Year: 30µg m^-3

Name and Date of AQAP Publication: Air Quality Action Plan for Rushcliffe dated December 2021

Weblink to AQAP: AQAP_2021-26

AQMA No 1 2011 Stragglethorpe Road

Date of Declaration: 01/10/2011

Pollutants and Air Quality Objectives: NO₂ Annual Mean

Description: Land adjacent to A52 at Stragglethorpe Lane junction

Is air quality in the AQMA influenced by roads controlled by Highways England? Yes

Level of Exceedance - Declaration: 50.5µg m^-3

Level of Exceedance - Current Year: 33µg m^-3

Name and Date of AQAP Publication: Air Quality Action Plan for Rushcliffe dated December 2021

Weblink to AQAP:

Rushcliffe Borough Council confirm the information on UK-Air regarding their AQMA(s) is up to date.
Rushcliffe Borough Council confirm that all current AQAPs have been submitted to Defra.

2.2 Progress and Impact of Measures to address Air Quality in Rushcliffe Borough Council

Defra’s appraisal of last year’s ASR concluded the report was detailed, concise and satisfied the criteria of relevant standards. Specific comments made by Defra are provided below and where required, details given on how the matters raised have been addressed in the 2022 report:

It is encouraging to see the Council responding to and actioning comments made during the 2020 ASR appraisal. This highlights their commitment to improving air quality within their jurisdiction and adheres with good practice. No comment required.
As part of the ongoing review and management of the local air quality monitoring network nine locations (HH, PC, SH, BH, A52 HHF2, A52 HHF3, Trent B2, Trent B3 and Monitor) were removed from the 2019 network. Several locations (HH, PC, SH and BH) had consistently reported NO₂ annual mean concentrations below the air quality objective. Other locations (A52 HHF2, A52 HHF3, Trent B2, Trent B3 and Monitor) were duplicate or triplicate tubes located alongside a continuous monitor. The report states that these were originally installed with a view to engaging in co-location studies but as this had not happened the duplicate and triplicate tubes were no longer deemed necessary. However, keeping the co-location tubes would allow for a comparison with the national bias even if not retained and would be encouraged for future years. Comment is noted and Rushcliffe Borough Council will consider the re-introduction of duplicate or triplicate tubes at key locations on the monitoring network.
Some fields in progress monitoring of measures to improve air quality have only been partially filled, the "Estimated Cost of Measure" in particular has not been filled for most measures. However, the list of measures completed in the last year as well as those that will completed be next year is well detailed, this is appreciated. Comment noted although it is not always possible to obtain estimated costs particularly for the measures under the control of our partners.
The Public Health Outcomes Frameworks was mentioned and this is encouraged. No comment required.
The Council has provided a clear map of the diffusion tube monitoring network; trends are displayed and discussed in the report, this is welcomed. No comment required.

Rushcliffe Borough Council and its partners have taken forward a number of direct measures during the current reporting year of 2022 in pursuit of improving local air quality. Details of all measures completed, in progress or planned are set out in progress monitoring of measures to improve air quality. Fifty-one measures are included, with the type of measure and the progress Rushcliffe Borough Council and its partners have made during the reporting year of 2021 presented. Where there have been, or continue to be, barriers restricting the implementation of the measure, these are also presented within progress monitoring of measures to improve air quality.

Rushcliffe Borough Council published an updated Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) in 2021 and the measures are aligned with this updated plan (2021 Air Quality Action Plan. The 2021 AQAP replaces the two previous plans which were specific to each of the AQMAs. Whilst the two have been consolidated into one AQAP, there remains (where appropriate) measures specific to each of the AQMAs. As part of the development of the updated AQAP the action measures in the previous AQAPs were refined to include new or revised measures and out-of-date measures removed. In progress monitoring of measures to improve air quality – Progress on Measures to Improve Air Quality the ‘Measure No’ reflects the numbering system used in the AQAP – NC 01-22 are the Nottinghamshire County Council measures which relate predominantly to AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge; the NH 01-05 are the National Highways measures which relate predominantly to AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road; and the RB 01-23 are the Rushcliffe Borough Council measures which are generally applicable across the Borough. The expected efficacy of the measures is provided by a traffic light colour coded system with measures highlighted in green as the most effective and red as least effective.

The primary required outcomes of the measures contained in the AQAP are to ensure

the downward trend in NO₂ levels continues in both AQMAs to a point where there is sustained compliance with the AQS which will enable the revocation of the AQMA; and
we strive for continued improvements in air quality, to encourage a shift to low emission transport options and smarter choices to facilitate and encourage walking, cycling and public transport use, all of which have co-benefits on health and well-being.

In addition to the publication of the AQAP 2021 other key completed measures included:

Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIP) – NCC have developed two Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIP) for Nottinghamshire; the BSIP for the Greater Nottinghamshire (Robin Hood) area, which was developed in partnership with Nottingham City Council, and the BSIP for Nottinghamshire. The plans, which were approved at the Transport & Environment Committee in November 2021, outline the Council’s ambitions for improving bus services within the county;
Electric Vehicle Cable Channels – The County Council continues to work on developing the EV charging infrastructure network within the county. A report on ‘On-street Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure’ was considered at the Transport & Environment Committee in February 2022, and approval was granted for the introduction of an Electric Vehicle Cable Channel pilot scheme. Work is currently underway to finalise the details of the pilot scheme;
Effective network management – The County Council continues to work with stakeholders to effectively manage its highway network. This includes the co-ordination of works, contingency planning, and effective event and incident planning;
Implementation of the Order to remove the U-turn movement at the Stragglethorpe junction and progression of the works at the Gamston roundabout to improve traffic flow and ease congestion;
Rushcliffe Borough Council, working together with Nottingham City Council secured investment via the Transforming Cities Fund to increase the provision of electric vehicle charging points in the D2N2 area with the following provision across the Borough:

Bunny Lane, Keyworth - March 2021 1x rapid charger
Church drive, Keyworth - April 2021 4x fast chargers
Cotgrave Hub, Cotgrave - May 2021 2x rapid chargers
Health centre car park, Radcliffe on Trent - May 2021 2x rapid chargers
Walkers Yard, Radcliffe on Trent - May 2021 4x fast chargers

Working with the relevant organisations/bodies to try to resolve infrastructure constraints (for example electricity supply capacity) that may be limiting the ability to expand the charging point network to other locations;
Introduction of the Green Rewards scheme which is a joint initiative with other Nottinghamshire Local Authorities to help and encourage residents make more sustainable choices and lower their carbon footprint. The Green Rewards app and web platform enables residents to accumulate points and earn the prizes for many activities they do every day at home or out and about. The scheme encourages active travel by rewarding activities such as walking/cycling to work/school and using public transport. The scheme was introduced in October 2020 and by the end of the year 500 residents had already signed up. Further details of the Green Rewards Scheme can be found on their webpage.
Publication of the new Rushcliffe Borough Council Climate Change Strategy for 2021 – 2030 which sets out how the Council seeks to reduce its own emissions; and help support local residents and businesses to do the same. Several partners and enterprises across the Borough (including the University of Nottingham, British Geological Survey, Artex, Belvoir Health Group) share learning, views and skills on carbon reduction through the Rushcliffe Borough Council Big Business Carbon Club.
The RBC private hire and hackney vehicles policy refers to the increased use of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEV) and is likely to be enhanced further in the near future.
The RBC private hire and hackney vehicles policy refers to the increased use of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEV) and is likely to be enhanced further in the near future.
Securing via planning condition the provision of electric vehicle charging points in new build residential and commercial developments.
Requiring the submission of air quality assessments for developments in or close to the AQMAs prior to determination of a planning application.
Increasing residents’ awareness of changes in legislation that seek to improve air quality eg the phasing out of the sale of wet wood and coal for domestic burning between 2021 and 2023; and taking enforcement action, where necessary.
Rushcliffe Borough Council has been working with GP practices across the Borough on the Green Impact for Health Scheme which is designed to encourage practices to take steps to become more environmentally friendly and all Rushcliffe practices are now accredited. The scheme provides a free online toolkit with over 100 actions to improve environmental sustainability including strategies such as active travel which will improve air quality. More info can be found here: Green Impact for Health | Green Impact | Students Organising for Sustainability (nus.org.uk)
Rushcliffe Borough Council is also working with GPs on the Active Practice Charter looking to encourage staff and patients to be more physically active and less sedentary. Six of the eleven practices now accredited. This has seen the adoption of cycle to work schemes and team virtual race competitions leading to more people being active and using their car less. More info can be found here: Physical Activity Hub: Active Practice Charter (rcgp.org.uk)
Integration of design parameters and plant/equipment in Rushcliffe Borough Council capital projects to help achieve carbon neutral status in its operations by 2030 with a co-benefit of improving air quality:
- This includes the installation of an electric cremator in the new Rushcliffe Oaks, a new crematorium facility and community space in Stragglethorpe. Recent research undertaken by Coventry University provides a comparison of gas and electric cremator emissions in the UK. The study undertaken as part of degree level thesis focuses on carbon dioxide (CO₂) and NO_x emissions and concludes an electric cremator produces 50-80% less CO₂ emissions and 33% less NO_x emissions [Copeland B A comparison of gas and electric cremator emissions in the UK. A dissertation submitted to the School of Energy, Construction and Environment, Faculty of Engineering, Environment and Computing, Coventry University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Geography BSc (Hons)]. Rushcliffe Oaks will be operated by the Council and is due to open in Autumn 2022.
- Work continues on the Bingham Arena and Enterprise Centre which is a £16m leisure centre and office development project partly funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership. The build will be 80% lower carbon than standard new build leisure centres /offices due to the installation of a range of design parameters and equipment choices which will have a co-benefit of reducing the impact on air quality. These include combined heat and power units in the leisure centre, air source heat pumps and photovoltaic solar panels on the office roof. The development is set to open in 2022.
In December 2021, the Nottingham City Council’s Executive Board gave approval to progress a scheme for a new bridge over the River Trent to be located at Trent Basin. The City Council has secured funding (£9.25m) for the Waterside Bridge from the Government’s Transforming Cities fund. The project is being led by Nottingham City Council, working in partnership with Rushcliffe Borough Council and in consultation with Nottinghamshire County Council.

Rushcliffe Borough Council expects the following measures to be completed over the course of the next reporting year:

Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) – the County Council (in partnership with Derby City, Derbyshire County, and Nottingham City councils) have developed a D2N2 wide LCWIP. Further public engagement on the D2N2 LCWIP is due to be undertaken in the summer of 2022. Cycling and walking improvements priorities identified through technical analysis undertaken as part of the LCWIP development will be subject to feasibility, consultation, and County Council Cabinet approval.
Regatta Way Active Travel Fund (ATF) Scheme – The County Council secured funding from Tranche 2 of the ATF to deliver segregated cycleway/footway improvements along Regatta Way, West Bridgford. Works are due to be completed summer 2022.
The U-turn ban at the Stragglethorpe junction will come into force. This ban prevents vehicles travelling on the A52 east (towards Radcliffe on Trent and Bingham) from making a U-turn at Stragglethorpe junction to travel west towards Nottingham. Banning this U-turn movement will improve the flow of traffic and reduce congestion at the Stragglethorpe junction, the location of AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.
Expansion of the EV CP network across the Borough with a solar hub installation in Gamston and installations at Rushcliffe Country Park, Gresham and Bingham Arena.
Works to assess the feasibility of other sites, including working with other bodies e.g. Western Power to increase infrastructure capacity to enable further installations.
Identification of further funding streams to support the development of the charging network eg the Government local electric vehicle infrastructure (LEVI) scheme is intended to encourage large scale, ambitious and commercially sustainable projects that leverage significant private sector investment. It is the intention that the LEVI will support a transition towards local chargepoint provision secured on a commercial basis without public funding.
Works to source and fund a fuel facility at the Council depot to support the transition of the vehicle fleet to biofuel.
Publication of the Rushcliffe Borough Council cycling strategy which aims to (1) increase awareness through the publication of a cycle map for the Borough; (2) improve infrastructure to facilitate cycling and walking; (3) work with partners, including the Big Business Carbon Club and schools to promote cycling; and (4).
Construction of the new cycleway and footway on Regatta Way in West Bridgford to link the residential areas to facilities at Holme Pierrepont Country Park and promote active travel.

Rushcliffe Borough Council’s priorities for the coming year are to continue to work with our partners to:

implement the relevant actions set out within the AQAP 2021 to manage traffic volume and flow and enable residents to make smarter travel choices; and
actively promote policies to encourage an increased use of low emission travel options in the Borough; and to secure funding for the installation of a publicly accessible vehicle charging network infrastructure across our estate.

Rushcliffe Borough Council worked to implement these measures in partnership with the following stakeholders during 2021:

Nottinghamshire County Council; and
National Highways.

Rushcliffe Borough Council anticipates that the measures stated above and in the progress monitoring of measures to improve air quality below, will achieve compliance in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge and AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.

Progress on Measures to Improve Air Quality

Measure NC01

Description: Optimisation of traffic signals
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: Urban Traffic Control (UTC), congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)/Via EM Ltd - integrated transport block funding
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: SCOOT and MOVA equipped signals are relayed back to the Traffic Control Centre so that they can be altered in real time as required.
Efficacy: High

Measure NC02

Description: Traffic control and management - traffic control centre that monitors traffic movement and provides real time traffic control over many traffic signal installations
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: UTC, Congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)/Via EM Ltd/Nottingham City Council (NCiC)
Funding source: NCC and NCiC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £100 - £500
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: The UTCC is a shared facility between Nottinghamshire County Council and the City Council. Estimated cost shown is the County Council’s annual contribution. Potential barrier: Lack of future revenue funding
Efficacy: High

Measure NC03

Description: Co-ordination of street works to minimise traffic disruption and unnecessary congestion.
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: UTC, Congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: NCC/Via EM/NCiC/Highways England (HE)
Funding source: NCC, NCiC, HE revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £100 - £500
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Regular coordination meetings held between all works promoters and regional partners in additional to regular meetings between National Highways and regional partners to create a framework programme of planned works affecting strategic and local routes. The County Council introduced a streetworks permit scheme on 1 April 2020 to help plan/coordinate roadworks on its managed highway network. Detailed journey time monitoring undertaken annually since 2005/06
Efficacy: High

Measure NC04

Description: Incident management and effective contingency planning to minimise traffic disruption and unnecessary congestion.
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: UTC, congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)/Via EM Ltd/Nottingham City Council (NCiC)
Funding source: NCC/Via EM/NCiC/National Highways: NCC, NCiC, National Highways revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £100 - £500
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Not stated
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Information conveyed by all forms of media (press, radio, website, social media etc.).
Efficacy: High

Measure NC05

Description: Bus stop clearways
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: UTC, congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: 2016
Organisations involved: NCC/Via EM Ltd
Funding source: NCC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Completed
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Complete. Bus stop clearways introduced in and on approaches to the AQMA. CCTV enforcement car introduced in 2016, second vehicle purchased in 2018; and third vehicle introduced in 2019.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Further clearways will only be considered should vehicles parking in bus stops be identified as impeding traffic flows.
Efficacy: Low

Measure NC06

Description: Real time travel information
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: NCC
Funding source: NCC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Information conveyed by all forms of media (press, radio, website, social media etc.).
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC07

Description: On-street parking management and control
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: Workplace Parking Levy, Parking Enforcement on highway
Year measure introduced: 2012
Organisations involved: NCiC
Funding source: NCC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Manage parking to improve journey time reliability
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Parking restrictions already in place within AQMA. No additional side-road/off-line locations currently identified as requiring restrictions to aid traffic flow
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC08

Description: Nottingham city workplace parking levy (WPL)
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: Workplace Parking Levy, Parking Enforcement on highway
Year measure introduced: 2012
Organisations involved: NCiC
Funding source: WPL funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Whilst not within the county remit the scheme may reduce the number of vehicles travelling through the AQMA en-route to the City
Efficacy: Low

Measure NC09

Description: NCC travel plan
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Workplace Travel Planning
Year measure introduced: 2012
Organisations involved: NCC
Funding source: NCC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: NCC travel plan in operation for over 20 years
Efficacy: Low

Measure NC10

Description: Personal travel planning (PTP) with residents
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Personalised Travel Planning
Year measure introduced: 2017
Organisations involved: NCC/AECOM; integrated transport block
Funding source: Access Fund funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Completed
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: PTP undertaken with West Bridgford residents in 2016. Further Access Fund funded travel planning undertaken in West Bridgford during 2018
Comments / barriers to implementation: Future PTP will be delivered should revenue funding sources be identified and secured for its delivery
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC11

Description: Car sharing scheme
Category: Alternatives to private vehicle use
Classification: Car & lift sharing schemes
Year measure introduced: 2012
Organisations involved: NCC
Funding source: NCC
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Less than £10k
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: 3,522 members currently registered. Implementation is ongoing. Between 01/01/21 - 31/12/21: 1,512,434 miles saved.£378,865 money saved. 333.49 tonnes CO2 reductions. 1.51 tonnes NOx reductions.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Costs shown are annual. 1077kg (1.06t) of NOx reductions during 2020
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC12

Description: Development of ITSO public transport smartcard ticketing
Category: Transport Planning and Infrastructure
Classification: Public transport improvements-interchanges stations and services
Year measure introduced: 2012
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)/Nottingham City Council (NCiC)/ Private travel operators
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Ongoing
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased passenger transport patronage
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date:
Integrated ticketing strategy developed in 2014/15. New smartcard platform introduced in 2014. Robin Hood card scheme introduced in 2015. The major bus operators have now all introduced contactless payments for their own ticketing products alongside the Robinhood card and this was completed in around March 2020.

The first multi-operator contactless ticketing system in the UK outside London was launched in the Nottingham area in May 2022.
Public transport users can now pay a single daily capped fare across the majority of the city’s buses and trams using their chosen contactless payment method.
Comments / barriers to implementation:
The Nottinghamshire Enhanced Partnership is seeking to use indicative BSIP funding to deliver a multi operator ticket (MOT) in Newark & Mansfield, alongside development of an add-on for passengers travelling into the Robin Hood network in Greater Nottingham.

MOT strategy completed: December 2022
Robin Hood add-on to launch: March 2024
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC13

Description: Countywide off-peak concessionary public transport fare scheme for the over 60s and disabled.
Category: Transport Planning and Infrastructure
Classification: Public transport improvements-interchanges stations and services.
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: NCC/NCiC/PT operators
Funding source: NCC
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: More than £10m
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increase passenger transport patronage
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Estimated annual cost of measure shown
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC14

Description: Web based journey planners
Category: Public Information
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: NCC
Funding source: NCC
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased walking/cycling/ passenger transport trips
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Web based tools included on NCC Travel Choice website https://travelchoice.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/journey-planner/ and on NCC’s website: http://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/transport/public-transport/plan-journey
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC15

Description: Enhancements to bus services operating within the AQMA
Category: Transport Planning and Infrastructure
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: NCC/PT operators
Funding source: Not status
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased passenger transport patronage, reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Capacity increases will be considered should passenger information demonstrate that there is insufficient capacity on existing services
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC16

Description: Park and ride site to the east of Nottingham
Category: Alternatives to private vehicle use
Classification: Bus based Park & Ride
Year measure introduced: Not stated. Estimated completion year is 2026.
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council
Funding source: No funding source identified
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Aborted
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Progress to date: No site currently identified. No funding source identified
Comments / barriers to implementation: Scheme dependent on identifying appropriate site, business case for any proposals and securing funding for its delivery.
Efficacy: Low

Measure NC17

Description: Annual cycling promotional marketing
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)
Funding source: NCC revenue funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £50k - £100k
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased cycling trips
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: General promotion (website and literature) ongoing. PTP delivered during 2018 following completion of cycle route improvements. Greater Nottingham cycling maps published.NCC’s website and Travel Choice webpages provide information on alternatives to using private vehicles, including cycle maps, leisure ‘Routes and Rides’ and the Rights of Way network.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Travel Choice website: https://travelchoice.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC18

Description: Annual walking promotional marketing
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of walking
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)
Funding source: NCC
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £50k - £100k
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased walking trips
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: General promotion (website and literature) ongoing. PTP delivered during 2018 following completion of cycle route improvements. Greater Nottingham cycling maps published.NCC’s website and Travel Choice webpages provide information on alternatives to using private vehicles, including cycle maps, leisure ‘Routes and Rides’ and the Rights of Way network
Comments / barriers to implementation: Funded within existing resources. Travel Choice website: https://travelchoice.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC19

Description: Adult and child cycle training
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC)
Funding source: DfT funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased cycling trips
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: 739 children received cycle training in 2020/21 and 1280 in 2021/22. Implementation is ongoing.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Cycle training during 2020/21 and 2021/22 was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic which saw school closures and the introduction of 'bubbles' Consequently, this restricted the number of schools who participated/were able to receive cycle training.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC20

Description: Walking and cycling infrastructure improvements
Category: Transport Planning and Infrastructure
Classification: Cycle network
Year measure introduced: 2017
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council
Funding source: DfT funding and Active Travel Fund
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Completed
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased cycling trips
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation on-going
Comments / barriers to implementation: Potential new Trent walking/cycling bridge and improvements to it (subject to feasibility, consultation and Cabinet approvals). No further works to be undertaken unless prioritised through the technical analysis assessment and external/additional DfT funding secured for their delivery. Dependant on outcome of technical analysis prioritisation.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NC21

Description: Bus fleet low emission vehicles
Category: Promoting Low Emission Transport
Classification: Promoting Low Emission Public Transport
Year measure introduced: 2018
Organisations involved: NCC/NCiC/PT operators; NCT (operator)
Funding source: OLEV funding
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £500k - £1 million
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Ongoing take-up of cleaner vehicles
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing. SQBP in place affecting all buses travelling through AQMA
Comments / barriers to implementation: All local buses operating into Nottingham City Centre and through the AQMA will meet Euro VI standards by the end of 2021. Operator NCT has invested £4.7m of OLEV funding to operate gas buses along two routes through upgrade its facilities to enable running of a gas fleet. In addition, NCT has invested £1.5m in 10 new Euro VI midi-buses operating on four routes through the AQMA. Operator Trent Barton has invested just over £2m in 12 new euro VI buses operating on three routes in the AQMA. NCC has invested £0.9m from the Clean Bus Technology Fund in 2018 to retrofit older buses to achieve Euro VI equivalent. This includes routes operated by several operators in the AQMA
Efficacy: High

Measure NC22

Description: Introduction of wider network of EV charging points to encourage the take-up of alternative fuel vehicles
Category: Promoting Low Emission Transport
Classification: Procuring alternative refuelling infrastructure to promote Low Emission Vehicles, EV recharging
Year measure introduced: 2022
Organisations involved: Nottinghamshire County Council
Funding source: Privately funded by resident and OLEV funding (LEVI)
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Partially funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: No. of EV charge points introduced in the Borough
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: County Council approved the trialling of on-street EV charging cable channels at Transport & Environment Committee in February 2022.
All delivery processes, design specifications, and internal approvals being finalised.

Nottinghamshire County Council submitted a bid for OZEV's Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) pilot funding in June 2022. If successful, the LEVI funding will help extend the pilot.

The County Council is working to determine the Council’s long term on-street EV strategy.
NCC is looking to develop a bid for the main LEVI funding for 2023/24.
Comments / barriers to implementation: The County Council is still finalising the details of the pilot scheme. Measure is reliant on a successful LEVI bid.
Efficacy: High

Measure NH01

Description: Using new traffic light control technology to minimise the frequency of stops for large vehicles (lorries & buses predominantly). It is hoped that reducing stops for these vehicles it will reduce their emissions; further benefits may accrue by reducing their idle time and the capacity implications of larger, slower, vehicles pulling off at the front of a traffic queue.
Category: Traffic management
Classification: Strategic highway improvements
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: National Highways
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Improved traffic flow
Key performance indicator: Reduction in NO2 annual mean concentration of 1µg m-3 required to achieve the AQS – further reduction (in the region of 10%) required to demonstrate well below the AQS and sustained compliance.
Progress to date: Not stated
Comments / barriers to implementation: Technology is effective at detecting large vehicles and influencing signal control. Control set up used showed benefits in some cases but in others proved detrimental by overriding the well developed adaptive control system (MOVA). The net effect was shown to be negative on stops and delays however this did not translate into a material change in air quality readings; it is assumed therefore that even focussing on the positive elements the level of impact from this system is too small to have a meaningful impact on emissions at a single junction. NH have reverted out those changes shown to be detrimental but left in those they are confident were beneficial. As part of the proposed upcoming changes as part of the A52 Nottingham Junctions project NH are hoping to further review and see if some softer priority measures can be re-introduced for HGVs.
Efficacy: High

Measure NH02

Description: Using new traffic light control technology to minimise the frequency of stops for large vehicles (lorries & buses predominantly). It is hoped that reducing stops for these vehicles it will reduce their emissions; further benefits may accrue by reducing their idle time and the capacity implications of larger, slower, vehicles pulling off at the front of a traffic queue.
Category: Traffic management
Classification: Strategic highway improvements
Year measure introduced: 2016. Estimated year of completion 2023.
Organisations involved: National Highways
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Not stated
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Improved traffic flow
Key performance indicator: Reduction in NO2 annual mean concentration of 1µg m-3 required to achieve the AQS – further reduction (in the region of 10%) required to demonstrate well below the AQS and sustained compliance.
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing. The order to remove the U-turn movement at Stragglethorpe will be brought into force on Friday
27 May 2022.
Comments / barriers to implementation: If the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is approved and the order is made this will facilitate a reconfirmation of the signal control which will reduce the signal cycle time (and hence shorter red periods, queues and idling) and improve capacity. It is these further changes that will bring about any change in emissions and air quality.
Efficacy: High

Measure NH03

Description: Introduction of wider network of EV charging points to encourage the take-up of alternative fuel vehicles.
Category: Promoting Low Emission Transport
Classification: Procuring alternative refuelling infrastructure to promote Low Emission Vehicles, EV recharging
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: National Highways (EV infrastructure on the trunk road network)
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: No. of EV charge points introduced in the Borough
Key performance indicator: Reduction in NO2 annual mean concentration of 1µg m-3 required to achieve the AQS – further reduction (in the region of 10%) required to demonstrate well below the AQS and sustained compliance.
Progress to date: Not stated
Comments / barriers to implementation: Implementation ongoing. Review of on-street and rural EV charging infrastructure to be undertaken during 2020/21.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NH04

Description: Co-ordination of street works to minimise traffic disruption and unnecessary congestion
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: UTC, congestion management, traffic reduction
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: National Highways
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Improved traffic flow, reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Reduction in NO2 annual mean concentration of 1µg m-3 required to achieve the AQS – further reduction (in the region of 10%) required to demonstrate well below the AQS and sustained compliance.
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not stated
Efficacy: Medium

Measure NH05

Description: Walking and cycling infrastructure improvements
Category: Transport Planning and Infrastructure
Classification: Cycle Network
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: National Highways
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Walking and cycling infrastructure improvements
Key performance indicator: Reduction in NO2 annual mean concentration of 1µg m-3 required to achieve the AQS – further reduction (in the region of 10%) required to demonstrate well below the AQS and sustained compliance.
Progress to date: NH seeking funding for a strategic study to identify further options and explore potential routes to funding and delivery.
Comments / barriers to implementation: The A52 corridor from Bingham to Gamston (and further into Nottingham City) has been identified as having potential for wider walking, cycling and public transport improvements and NH are seeking funding for a strategic study to identify further options and explore potential routes to funding and delivery.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC01

Description: Off-street parking management and control (including review of car parking offer/charging)
Category: Traffic Management
Classification: Workplace Parking Levy, Parking Enforcement on highway
Year measure introduced: Not stated
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Local Authority funded
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Less than £10k
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Improved traffic flow, reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Not stated.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not relevant within AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC02

Description: Ensure sustainable development on sites within Borough that may impact on AQMA
Category: Policy Guidance and Development Control
Classification: Other policy
Year measure introduced: 2012 - estimated completion 2032
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Local Authority funded
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Developments within and potentially impacting on an AQMA supported by AQ assessments. No. of AQ impact assessments related to AQMA
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing - Ensuring AQ is at the heart of planning decision.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Propose to adapt and introduce EMAQN Air Quality and Emissions Mitigation – Guidance for Developers for RBC to ensure consistency of approach.
Efficacy: High

Measure RBC03

Description: Co-ordination of land-use planning and transport infrastructure
Category: Policy Guidance and Development Control
Classification: Other policy
Year measure introduced: 2012 - estimated completion 2032
Organisations involved: RBC/NCC/NH
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: No. of impact assessments
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing - Ensuring AQ is at the heart of planning decision
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not stated
Efficacy: High

Measure RBC04

Description: Use of planning conditions for mitigation; inc. travel plans etc. and to ensure for planning applications within AQMAs that are introducing sensitive receptors to the area that air quality assessments are required, and developments with vulnerable end users that the assessment takes account of WHO guidelines on air quality and PM_2.5
Category: Policy Guidance and Development Control
Classification: Other policy
Year measure introduced: 2012 - estimated completion 2031
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: No. of travel plans required as planning conditions and number of AQ assessments submitted with mitigation measures put in place
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Ongoing as part of the development control process - Development specific requirement.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not stated
Efficacy: High

Measure RBC05

Description: Secure appropriate levels of developer contributions (Section 106 and/or CIL) for use on sustainable transport and air quality improvement projects
Category: Policy Guidance and Development Control
Classification: Other policy
Year measure introduced: 2012 - estimated completion 2032
Organisations involved: RBC/NCC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Sums collected for such infrastructure projects
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Ongoing as part of the development control process - Development specific requirement.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not stated
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC06

Description: Promote carbon reduction policies and guidance to developers working within Rushcliffe with a co-benefit of improving air quality
Category: Policy Guidance and Development Control
Classification: Other policy
Year measure introduced: 2019 - estimated completion 2030
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: No. of EV charge points introduced in the Borough through planning conditions.
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Ongoing - driven by the policies in the Local Plan adopted in 2019
Comments / barriers to implementation: Provision of/for EV charging points in new residential and commercial developments
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC07

Description: Workplace travel plans
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Workplace Travel Planning
Year measure introduced: 2016
Organisations involved: RBC planning/NCC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Developed with businesses as part of planning conditions when secured by RBC. Targeted travel planning (funded by the County Council) was held at workplaces within the AQMA during 2014/15
Comments / barriers to implementation: Not stated
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC08

Description: RBC travel plan
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Workplace Travel Planning
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: RBC/ RBC planning/NCC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Not stated
Comments / barriers to implementation: RBC developed travel plan as a planning condition for occupation of new premises
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC09

Description: Flexible working arrangements
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Encourage / Facilitate home-working
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing. Planning conditions secured by RBC to ensure residential travel planning is undertaken where appropriate.
Comments / barriers to implementation: RBC developed travel plan as a planning condition for occupation of new premises
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC10

Description: Travel planning with residents at new developments
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Personalised Travel Planning
Year measure introduced: 2016
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Restrain average journey times in the morning peak to a 1% increase per year
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing. Planning conditions secured by RBC to ensure residential travel planning is undertaken where appropriate
Comments / barriers to implementation: No comments
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC11

Description: Introduction of wider network of off-street EV charging points to encourage take up of alternative fuel vehicles
Category: Promoting Low Emmission Transport
Classification: Procuring alternative Refuelling infrastructure to promote Low Emission Vehicles, EV recharging, Gas fuel recharging
Year measure introduced: 2019
Organisations involved: RBC / NCiC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £500k - £1m
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions. No. of EV charge points introduced across the Borough
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Successful in funding bid to OZEV – residents off street charging provision in Keyworth and Radcliffe on Trent. 20 charging points installed as part of Go Ultra Low Project. Other sites identified and due to come on board imminently; Site investigation ongoing to determine feasibility of other sites. Currently assessing other potential funding schemes.
Comments / barriers to implementation: RBC working in partnership with NCiC to develop the CP infrastructure along the D2N2 corridor – funding via Transforming Cities Fund. Implementation ongoing. Constraints identified in some locations due to power supply issues. Working with electricity distributor to improve supply provision
Efficacy: High

Measure RBC12

Description: Develop a strategy for further EV provision across the Borough
Category: Promoting Low Emission Transport
Classification: Procuring alternative Refuelling infrastructure to promote Low Emission Vehicles, EV recharging, Gas fuel recharging
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions. No. of EV charge points introduced across the Borough
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Installation of one solar canopy hub – others under consideration
Comments / barriers to implementation: Constraints identified around power supply in some locations. Partnering with City under Transforming Cities Fund to increase D2N2 offering across the Borough; exploring wider options. Assessing other potential funding sources eg LEVI
Efficacy: High

Measure RBC13

Description: Promotion of low emission vehicles through taxi licensing
Category: Promoting Low Emission Transport
Classification: Taxi emission incentives
Year measure introduced: 2021
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Review of taxi licence criteria/incentives for use of electric vehicles. Under consideration – exploring possible options
Comments / barriers to implementation: Currently reviewing case studies
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC14

Description: Procurement of new RBC vehicles
Category: Vehicle Fleet Efficiency
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Number of electric and/or other low emission vehicles within RBC fleet. Replace Rushcliffe Country Park diesel buggies with electric buggies.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Applicable to RBC operations - link with Carbon Management Plan
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC15

Description: Investigate potential replacement/upgrading of RBC refuse trucks & vans with ULEV, Biogas, hydrogen fuelled vehicles
Category: Vehicle Fleet Efficiency
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: 2021
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions. No. of electric and/or other low emission vehicles within RBC fleet
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Successful trial undertaken in 2020/21 working with a partner organisation providing biofuel; going forward sourcing fuel facility for Borough Council depot.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Applicable to RBC operations - link with Carbon Management Plan and accelerating shift to low carbon transport.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC16

Description: Integrate RBC driver training with annual certification and investigate in-cab monitoring and route optimisation
Category: Vehicle Fleet Efficiency
Classification: Other
Year measure introduced: 2021
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Planning
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Not stated.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Applicable to RBC operations - link with Carbon Management Plan and accelerating shift to low carbon transport.
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC17

Description: Widen access to staff cycle purchase scheme
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling and walking
Year measure introduced: 2015 - estimated completion 2025.
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increase in cycle purchases via staff scheme
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: RBC staff initiative. 35 people have availed of the scheme since it was introduced in 2015
Comments / barriers to implementation: Scheme open to all staff
Efficacy: Low

Measure RBC018

Description: Work with partners to promote active travel to the public - (eg school travel plans including accreditation (stars) and walking bus; travel choice programme including active travel; well-being at work scheme / work place health; business e-bike scheme; healthy futures fund – cycling on prescription; community cycling groups; Ridewise training
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling and walking
Year measure introduced: 2016
Organisations involved: NCC / RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Implementation ongoing. Further bike repair and learn to cycle sessions made available in 2022. Green Rewards scheme introduced in 2020 - encouraging active travel where residents who sign up to the scheme can earn points which give discounts in local shops and entry into prize draws.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Cxx
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC19

Description: Development of RBC cycling strategy
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling and walking
Year measure introduced: 2021
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increased cycling trips; reduced vehicle emissions
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: New cycling strategy to be published in 2022 - increase awareness through publication of Borough wide cycling map; improvements to infrastructure; working with partners including Big Business Carbon Club partners and schools to promote cycling; development of policy to ensure Section 106 agreements are realised.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Development of RBC cycling strategy to identify RBC priorities and help residents make smarter travel choices. The strategy will complement and support the NCC cycling strategy with RBC working in collaboration with NCC to develop the cycling infrastructure.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC20

Description: Raise awareness of the wider government initiatives to reduce air emissions eg ban on the sale of house coal and wet wood
Category: Policy guidance and development control
Classification: Low emissions strategy
Year measure introduced: 2021
Organisations involved: RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduction in complaints relating to domestic burning
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Environment Bill 2021 has improved and streamlined enforcement powers in Smoke Control Areas
Comments / barriers to implementation: Working with Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards to ensure appropriate fuel is sold in the Borough.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC21

Description: Work with partners to encourage more sustainable travel
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling and walking
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: NCC / RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Reduced vehicle emissions, increased cycling/walking, wider benefit to public health
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Linking with public health to promote the health benefits of walking and cycling. Link with NCC Travel Choice programme https://travelchoice.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/
Comments / barriers to implementation: RBC working with GPs - Active Practice Charter looking to encourage staff and patients to be more physically active and less sedentary. Six of eleven practices now accredited. Adoption of cycle to work schemes and team virtual race competitions leading to more people being active and using their car less.
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC22

Description: Working on a regional basis with other Local Authorities & partners to develop area-wide strategies and guidance as required
Category: Policy Guidance and Development
Classification: Air Quality Planning and Policy Guidance
Year measure introduced: 2020
Organisations involved: NCC/UKHSA/RBC & other district/borough councils
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not funded
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Development of regional strategies, policies and guidance as required
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: RBC will continue to work with other authorities and relevant partners on a regional basis. RBC are a member of the East Midlands Air Quality Network.
Comments / barriers to implementation: Nottinghamshire Air Quality Strategy published 2020
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC23

Description: Regulation of Permitted Activities
Category: Environmental permits
Classification: Introduction /increase of environmental funding through permit systems and economic instruments
Year measure introduced: 2012 - estimated completion date 2032
Organisations involved: Environment Agency and RBC
Funding source: Not stated
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Not stated
Estimate cost of measure: Not stated
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Conditions applied in line with Defra guidance and support best practice
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Ongoing programme for inspection of permitted activities
Comments / barriers to implementation: No comment
Efficacy: Medium

Measure RBC24

Description: New Trent Crossing
Category: Promoting Travel Alternatives
Classification: Promotion of cycling and walking
Year measure introduced: 2020 - estimated completion 2024
Organisations involved: NCiC working in partnership with RBC & NCC
Funding source: Transforming Cities Fund
DEFRA AQ grant funding: No
Funding status: Funded
Estimate cost of measure: £1 million - £10 million
Measure status: Implementation
Reduction in pollutant / emission from measure: Increase cycling and walking; reduction in number of car journeys
Key performance indicator: Sustain compliance & reduce NO2 concentrations to well below the AQS objective (in the region of 10%)
Progress to date: Options appraisal and public consultation ongoing; planning application due to be submitted in early 2022.
Comments / barriers to implementation: The City Council secured £9.25m in 2020 from the Government’s Transforming Cities programme to deliver this scheme as part of a programme to invest in local transport infrastructure that will improve sustainable transport, support growth, and encourage more low carbon journeys.
Efficacy: Medium

Note: Measure No in the above table reflects the numbering system used in the 2021 AQAP – measures NC 01-22 are the Nottinghamshire County Council measures which relate predominantly to AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge; NH 01-05 are the National Highways measures which relate predominantly to AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road; and RB 01-23 are the Rushcliffe Borough Council measures which are generally applicable across the Borough.

2.3 PM_2.5– Local Authority Approach to Reducing Emissions and/or Concentrations

As detailed in Policy Guidance LAQM.PG16 (Chapter 7), local authorities are expected to work towards reducing emissions and/or concentrations of PM_2.5(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5µm or less). There is clear evidence that PM_2.5has a significant impact on human health, including premature mortality, allergic reactions, and cardiovascular diseases.

Within towns and cities, road traffic is an important source of PM_2.5emissions and consequently roadside levels tend to be much higher than those in background locations. Industrial emissions are also a source as is domestic burning which can also significantly increase levels of indoor air pollution.

Rushcliffe Borough Council does not undertake monitoring for particulate matter however an indication of the background concentrations of PM_2.5can be obtained from the current Defra background mapping resource available via UK-AIR. The background data provides estimated concentrations of PM_2.5across the Borough for 2021 (base year 2018) and indicates concentrations range from 7.5µg m^-3 to 9.9µg m^-3. Across the wider Midlands region estimated concentrations of PM_2.5range from 5.1µg m^-3 to 12.1µg m^-3_.

The Environment Act 2021 establishes a legally binding duty on government to bring forward at least two new air quality targets in secondary legislation by 31 October 2022. This duty sits within the environmental targets framework outlined in the Environment Act (Part 1).

The proposed air quality targets are currently out to consultation as part of the first suite of Environment Act 2021 targets. The consultation closes at the end of June 2022.

The proposed air quality targets are:

Annual Mean Concentration Target ('concentration target') - a maximum concentration of 10µg/m³ to be met across England by 2040
Population Exposure Reduction Target ('exposure target') - a 35% reduction in population exposure by 2040 (compared to a base year of 2018).

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Public Health Outcomes Framework (PHOF) indicator D01 provides estimates of local mortality burdens associated with particulate air pollution. This data, presented for each local authority, is based on the research evidence of mortality risk and modelled levels of background air pollution to which populations are exposed at a local level. The most recent update of the PHOF utilises a new method for the calculation of the local mortality burdens and as a result there is new data for Rushcliffe Borough Council. The attributable fraction (ie the proportion of deaths estimated as due to long-term exposure to anthropogenic particulate PM_2.5air pollution) for Rushcliffe for 2021 [Public Health Outcomes Framework– Rushcliffe (2021) Public Health Outcomes Framework - Rushcliffe] was 5.1% which is in line with the regional level of 5.2% and the national level of 5.6%.

The Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Air Quality Strategy 2020-2030 aims are (1) to reduce average concentrations of NO₂ and particulate matter across the County; and (2) to reduce the estimated proportion of disease and deaths attributable to air pollution.

Rushcliffe Borough Council is taking the following measures to address PM_2.5:

Rushcliffe Borough Council continues to work with our transport partners (Nottinghamshire County Council and Highways England) and other stakeholders to reduce transport impacts as a whole. This has benefit not only for NO₂ but all emissions from transport sources, including PM₅;
Planning applications for commercial wood/biomass burning plants are screened to determine whether an air quality assessment is required. One of the key considerations within an assessment will be emissions of particulate matter;
We will continue to work with UKSHA in considering the data on the Rushcliffe population in relation to respiratory illness in order to determine whether there is a correlation between the areas of high prevalence respiratory illnesses and the AQMAs. The principal application used is the Strategic Health Asset Planning and Evaluation (SHAPE) tool which is a web-enabled evidence-based application which informs and supports strategic planning of services and physical assets across the health economy;
Within the Borough the areas of Edwalton and West Bridgford have been declared Smoke Control Areas. The Council works to ensure only exempt appliances are used and authorised fuels are burnt in these areas;
Rushcliffe Borough Council is exploring the possibility of making adjustments to the Smoke Control Area coverage across the Borough. This work is at a preliminary stage and no decisions have yet been made. We will provide updates on this issue in future ASRs;
As awareness of the health effects of exposure to particulate matter increases within the population, we anticipate an increase in enquiries/complaints in relation to local air quality, including domestic burning and bonfires. We will consider running focussed campaigns to increase awareness and help residents to make informed choices;
We will utilise the recently published amendments to Smoke Control Area enforcement under the Environment Act 2021 which came into effect on 1st May 2022, and the statutory guidance on enforcement to take action as necessary. We will work with Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards to ensure fuel retailers supplying properties in the Borough with authorised fuels only;
We will continue to work and share knowledge with our neighbouring authorities as part of the Nottinghamshire Environmental Protection Working Group (NEPWG). The consideration of the extent of existing Smoke Control Areas and the impact of the recently published statutory guidance on enforcement are issues that have been raised at our most recent meeting (June 2022) and will be carried forward to future meetings.

3 Air Quality Monitoring Data and Comparison with Air Quality Objectives and National Compliance

This section sets out the monitoring undertaken within 2021 by Rushcliffe Borough Council and how it compares with the relevant air quality objectives. In addition, monitoring results are presented for a five-year period between 2017 and 2021 to allow monitoring trends to be identified and discussed.

3.1 Summary of Monitoring Undertaken

3.1.1 Automatic Monitoring Sites

Rushcliffe Borough Council undertook automatic (continuous) monitoring at two sites during 2021. The continuous monitors are both located within AQMAs. Appendix A shows the details of the automatic monitoring sites. The Nottingham Air Quality page presents automatic monitoring results for Rushcliffe Borough Council, with automatic monitoring results also available through the UK-AIR website.

Maps showing the location of the monitoring sites are provided in Appendix D. Further details on how the monitors are calibrated and how the data has been adjusted are included in Appendix C.

3.1.2 Non-Automatic Monitoring Sites

Rushcliffe Borough Council undertook non- automatic (ie passive) monitoring of NO₂ at 30 sites during 2021. The details of the non-automatic sites is shown in the Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 ( - 1,033KB).

As part of our ongoing review and management of the local air quality monitoring network two locations (37RR and 1HS) were removed from the 2020 network. These locations had consistently reported NO₂ annual mean concentrations below the air quality objective. Five additional monitoring locations were added to the network – DS1 and The Green were included to consider potential impacts from increased traffic movement and congestion in Ruddington village; Fern Road is located at a village junction where congestion has been noted; A52/Bassingfield was added to address concerns from members of the public regarding the National Highways alterations to the Stragglethorpe junction and Gamston roundabout and any potential associated impact on traffic queuing; and Rempstone was added in response from a request from the Parish Council about air quality impacts at the junction with the A60 in Rempstone village.

Maps showing the location of the monitoring sites are provided in Appendix D. Further details on Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) for the diffusion tubes, including bias adjustments and any other adjustments applied (eg annualisation and/or distance correction), are included in Appendix C.

3.2 Individual Pollutants

The air quality monitoring results presented in this section are, where relevant, adjusted for bias, annualisation (where the annual mean data capture is below 75% and greater than 25%), and distance correction. Further details on adjustments are provided in Appendix C.

3.2.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

Information in Appendix A compares the ratified and adjusted monitored NO₂ annual mean concentrations for the past five years with the air quality objective of 40µg m^-3. Note that the concentration data presented represents the concentration at the location of the monitoring site, following the application of bias adjustment and annualisation, as required (ie the values are exclusive of any consideration to fall-off with distance adjustment).

For diffusion tubes, the full 2021 dataset of monthly mean values is provided in Appendix B. Note that the concentration data presented includes distance corrected values, only where relevant. It was not necessary to undertake distance correction for any of the diffusion tube locations across the Rushcliffe Borough Council monitoring network. The diffusion tubes were installed in accordance with the 2021 diffusion tube calendar. Annualisation was required at two locations, A52/Bass and Rempstone as monitoring was commenced at these locations in May 2021 and Oct 2021, respectively and therefore data capture fell below 75%.

In Appendix A the ratified continuous monitored NO₂ hourly mean concentrations for the past five years is compared with the air quality objective of 200µg m^-3, not to be exceeded more than 18 times per year. There were no exceedances of the hourly air quality objective at either continuous monitoring site which is consistent with the trend for the past five years. The maximum hourly mean recorded by the continuous monitors was 103µg/m³in AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road and 140µg/m³ in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge.

The data presented in Table A3 and Table A4 shows the NO₂ annual mean concentration did not exceed the air quality objective at any location during 2021. It can be seen from Figure A.1 the NO₂ annual mean concentration recorded at all locations across the network continues the downward trend identified over the past five years. With the exception of one location (NK1) the NO₂ annual mean concentrations recorded in 2021 were slightly higher (between 1 and 14%) than in 2020. However, the 2021 concentrations remain below the levels recorded prior to 2020.

In AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge the NO₂ annual mean concentration was 30µg m^-3, an increase of 11% when compared to 2020 data. The maximum hourly mean was 140µg m^-3 therefore there were no exceedances of the NO₂ hourly limit of 200µg m^-3. The data (continuous and passive) for AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge for the period from 2017 to 2021 is presented in Figure A.2 in Air Quality Status Report 2022 (3 - 1,211KB). There were no exceedances of the annual mean objective and the concentrations at all locations were lower than pre-2020 levels. There was a slight increase in the 2021 levels when compared to the 2020 levels.

In AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road the NO₂ annual mean concentration was 33µg m^-3, an increase of 6% when compared to 2020 data. The maximum hourly mean was 103µg m^-3 so there were no exceedances of the NO₂ hourly limit of 200µg m^-3. Figure A.3 in Air Quality Status Report 2022 (3 - 1,211KB) shows the trends in annual mean NO₂ concentrations across all locations (Continuous & Passive) in AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road between 2017 and 2021. There were no exceedances of the annual mean objective and the concentrations at all locations were lower than pre-2020 levels. There was a slight increase in the 2021 levels at 2 of the 3 locations when compared to the 2020 levels.

Figure A.4 in Air Quality Status Report 2022 (3 - 1,211KB) shows a similar pattern in the NO₂ annual mean concentrations across the monitoring network for 2017 – 2021 at sites not located in an AQMA. There are 4 monitoring sites with no historic data as these are new monitoring locations added in 2021.

Both of the AQMAs are associated with traffic impacts therefore as with the 2020 data, the 2021 data should be considered in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. During 2020 the measured concentrations in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge and AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road were significantly reduced (27% and 24% respectively) in comparison to previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic national and regional lockdowns and the associated impact on traffic levels. The lockdowns and restrictions continued into 2021 with a third national lockdown from January until March 2021 when

England began a phased exit from lockdown. The roadmap out of lockdown eased restrictions until all were removed by July 2021 [UK Parliament House Of Commons Library Coronavirus: A history of English lockdown laws - House of Commons Library (parliament.uk)] and [Cabinet Office COVID-19 Response COVID-19 Response - Spring 2021 (Summary) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)]. The increase in the NO₂ annual mean concentration between 2020 and 2021 should be viewed in this context. The 2021 levels remain well below the levels recorded prior to the pandemic and it remains to be seen if lifestyle changes required to deal with the pandemic will have a long-term impact on population behaviour e.g. if significant numbers of people continue to work from home this may reduce traffic congestion at peak times. It is reasonable to assume the NO₂ annual mean concentrations recorded in 2021 continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and it is therefore difficult to draw robust conclusions from the dataset for this year.

Rushcliffe Borough Council will continue to monitor in both AQMAs. In AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge the NO₂ annual mean concentration has been below the air quality objective for a number of years, including pre pandemic. We will consider revocation of the AQMA within the next year should monitoring results demonstrate continued compliance and achieve concentrations in the region of 10% below the objective.

In AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road NO₂ annual mean concentrations have decreased significantly since declaration and have been at or close to the objective over the past few years. We will continue to monitor within the AQMA and review the data annually.

3.2.2 Particulate Matter (PM₁₀)

Rushcliffe Borough Council does not monitor Particulate Matter (PM₁₀).

3.2.3 Particulate Matter (PM_2.5)

Rushcliffe Borough Council does not monitor Particulate Matter (PM_2.5).

3.2.4 Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)

Rushcliffe Borough Council does not monitor sulphur dioxide (SO₂).

Appendix A: Monitoring Results

Details of Automatic Monitoring Sites

Site ID - Trent Bridge

Site name: Loughborough Road/Trent Bridge, West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458256

Y OS grid reference: 338156

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Monitoring technique: Chemiluminescent

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 3.75

Inlet height in metres: 1.5

Site ID - Holme House

Site name: Holme House, A52 Stragglethorpe junction, Radcliffe on Trent

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 463005

Y OS grid reference: 338208

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road)

Monitoring technique: Chemiluminescent

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 7.5

Inlet height in metres: 1.5

Notes:

0m if the monitoring site is at a location of exposure (eg installed on the façade of a residential property).
N/A if not applicable

Details of Non-Automatic Monitoring Sites

Diffusion Tube ID - WLR/2

Site name: 39/41 Wilford Lane, West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 457873

Y OS grid reference: 337426

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 9.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.2

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/SA

Site name: A52 South Avenue, Radcliffe on Trent

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 465929

Y OS grid reference: 339543

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 4.2

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.9

Diffusion Tube ID - CL

Site name: Cloverlands, West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 457223

Y OS grid reference: 335033

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 16.3

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - HR

Site name: Hampton Road, West Bridgford

Site type: Urban backgound

X OS grid reference: 458326

Y OS grid reference: 337727

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 5.4

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.1

Diffusion Tube ID - LR

Site name: Loughborough Road (RES), West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458126

Y OS grid reference: 337727

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 8.9

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 1.9

Diffusion Tube ID - Fern Road

Site name: Fern Road, Cropwell Bishop

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458413

Y OS grid reference: 335505

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 2.4

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 1.2

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/RT

Site name: A52/RT

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 464644

Y OS grid reference: 338730

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 6.5

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 3.3

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.0

Diffusion Tube ID - RR

Site name: Radcliffe Road, West Brridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458284

Y OS grid reference: 338150

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 4.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.3

Diffusion Tube ID - TBLA

Site name: Trent Boulevard A (West Bridgford)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458752

Y OS grid reference: 338278

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 7.1

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.0

Diffusion Tube ID - TBLB

Site name: Trent Boulevard B (West Bridgford)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458756

Y OS grid reference: 338267

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 3.4

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.4

Diffusion Tube ID - TBI

Site name: Trent Bridge Inn (West Bridgford)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458274

Y OS grid reference: 338117

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 6.6

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - WL3

Site name: Wilford Lane 3 (West Bridgford)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458134

Y OS grid reference: 337581

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 5.2

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.1

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.9

Diffusion Tube ID - WW

Site name: Windy Ways (West Bridgford)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 457651

Y OS grid reference: 337581

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 5.2

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.1

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 1.8

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/HHF1

Site name: A51 Holme House 1

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 463011

Y OS grid reference: 338213

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 6.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? Yes

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/HHF2

Site name: A51 Holme House 2

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 463040

Y OS grid reference: 338232

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 6.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? Yes

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - 15KHG

Site name: 15 Kirk Hill, Bingham

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 470202

Y OS grid reference: 338232

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 2.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 0.5

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - RuRo

Site name: Rugby Road, West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458132

Y OS grid reference: 336462

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 2.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 0.5

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - 2LA

Site name: 2A Long Acre, Bingham

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 470248

Y OS grid reference: 339834

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 1.2

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - Trent B1

Site name: Trent Buildings, West Bridgford

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458249

Y OS grid reference: 338167

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 3.6

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Diffusion Tube ID - DS 1

Site name: Distillery Street, Ruddington

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 457228

Y OS grid reference: 332891

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 2.6

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 0.8

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.4

Diffusion Tube ID - Mag 1

Site name: Magnolia 1, Edwalton

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 459366

Y OS grid reference: 334244

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 12.9

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 0.9

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - Mag 2

Site name: Magnolia 2, Edwalton

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 459324

Y OS grid reference: 334227

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 3.9

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 1.9

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - LR 1

Site name: Loughborough Road 1 (south of A52)

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 458100

Y OS grid reference: 337543

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 9.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.4

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - WL 1

Site name: Wilford Lane 1 (Centenary) - West Bridgford

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 458055

Y OS grid reference: 337566

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: Yes (AQMA No1 Trent Bridge)

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 7.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - NK 1

Site name: Nottingham Knight, West Bridgford

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 457612

Y OS grid reference: 334859

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 10.8

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.3

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.1

Diffusion Tube ID - TSQ

Site name: Davis Road/Tudor Square, West Bridgford

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 458977

Y OS grid reference: 337434

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 11.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 1.3

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - Sains

Site name: Sainsbury, Ruddington

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 457303

Y OS grid reference: 333214

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 0.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 2.2

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - Rempton

Site name: Main Street, Rempstone

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 457621

Y OS grid reference: 324386

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 8.5

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 1.6

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.6

Diffusion Tube ID - The Green

Site name: The Green, Ruddington

Site type: Kerbside

X OS grid reference: 457339

Y OS grid reference: 332944

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 15.6

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 0.9

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.4

Diffusion Tube ID - A52 Bass

Site name: A52 Bassingfield

Site type: Roadside

X OS grid reference: 461816

Y OS grid reference: 337855

Pollutants monitored: NO₂

In a AQMA?: No

Distance to relevant exposure in metres (1): 30.0

Distance to kerb of nearest road in metres (2): 10.0

Tube co-located with a continuous analyser? No

Tube height in metres: 2.5

Notes:

0m if the monitoring site is at a location of exposure (eg installed on the façade of a residential property).
N/A if not applicable

Annual Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results: Automatic Monitoring (µg m^-3)

Site ID - Trent Bridge

X OS grid reference: 458256

Y OS grid reference: 338156

Site type: Roadside

Valid data capture for monitoring period (%) (1): No data

Valid data capture 2021 (%) (2): 98.9

2017: 37

2018: 36

2019: 37

2020: 27

2021: 29

Site ID - A52 Holme House

X OS grid reference: 463005

Y OS grid reference: 338208

Site type: Roadside

Valid data capture for monitoring period (%) (1): No data

Valid data capture 2021 (%) (2): 93.5

2017: 38

2018: 39

2019: 41

2020: 31

2021: 33

Annualisation has been conducted where data capture is <75% and >25% in line with LAQM.TG16.

Reported concentrations are those at the location of the monitoring site (annualised, as required), ie prior to any fall-off with distance correction.

Notes:

The annual mean concentrations are presented as µg m^-3.

Exceedances of the NO₂ annual mean objective of 40µg m^-3 are shown in bold.

All means have been “annualised” as per LAQM.TG16 if valid data capture for the full calendar year is less than 75%. See Appendix C for details.

Concentrations are those at the location of monitoring and not those following any fall-off with distance adjustment.

Data capture for the monitoring period, in cases where monitoring was only carried out for part of the year.
Data capture for the full calendar year (eg if monitoring was carried out for 6 months, the maximum data capture for the full calendar year is 50%).

Annual Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results: Non-Automatic Monitoring (µg m^-3)

Information about these sites is shown in tables in the Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 (3 - 1,033KB).

Monitoring Charts

Charts can be found in the Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 (3 - 1,033KB) for:

Trends in Annual Mean NO₂ Concentrations Across All Diffusion Tube Locations between 2016 and 2020
Trends in Annual Mean NO₂ Concentrations Across Diffusion Tube Locations in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge between 2016 and 2020
Trends in Annual Mean NO₂ Concentrations Across Diffusion Tube Locations in AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road between 2016 and 2020

1-Hour Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results, Number of 1-Hour Means > 200µg m^-3

Site ID - Trent Bridge

X OS grid reference: 458256

Y OS grid reference: 338156

Site type: Roadside

Valid data capture for monitoring period (%) (1): No data

Valid data capture 2020 (%) (2): 95.4

2016: No data

2017: 0

2018: 0

2019: 0

2020: 0

Site ID - A52 Holme House

X OS grid reference: 463005

Y OS grid reference: 338208

Site type: Roadside

Valid data capture for monitoring period (%) (1): No data

Valid data capture 2020 (%) (2): 99.5

2016: 0

2017: 0

2018: 0

2019: 0

2020: 0

Notes:

Results are presented as the number of 1-hour periods where concentrations greater than 200µg m^-3 have been recorded.

Exceedances of the NO₂ 1-hour mean objective (200µg m^-3 not to be exceeded more than 18 times/year) are shown in bold.

If the period of valid data is less than 85%, the 99.8th percentile of 1-hour means is provided in brackets.

Data capture for the monitoring period, in cases where monitoring was only carried out for part of the year.
Data capture for the full calendar year (eg if monitoring was carried out for 6 months, the maximum data capture for the full calendar year is 50%).

Appendix B: Full Monthly Diffusion Tube Results for 2020

The detailed data for monthly diffusion tube results for 2020 can be found in the Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 (3 - 1,033KB).

Appendix C: Supporting Technical Information / Air Quality Monitoring Data QA/QC

New or Changed Sources Identified Within Rushcliffe Borough Council During 2020

Rushcliffe Borough Council has not identified any new sources relating to air quality within the reporting year of 2020.

Additional Air Quality Works Undertaken by Rushcliffe Borough Council During 2020

Rushcliffe Borough Council has not completed any additional works within the reporting year of 2020.

QA/QC of Diffusion Tube Monitoring

All monitoring and data management is undertaken by fully trained in-house employees who have several years’ experience in air quality monitoring and data management. Any new personnel undertake appropriate supervised training in line with the Service’s competency scheme prior to any unsupervised monitoring, calibration or data management. Currently two personnel are trained and competent to undertake such work.

The location of the diffusion tube monitoring sites is reviewed periodically (at least annually). Locations may be removed where for example data indicates annual mean concentrations are consistently well below the Air Quality Objective; and new locations may be added where potential new sources have been identified or concerns have been raised by the public.

Nitrogen Dioxide Diffusion Tube Monitoring

Rushcliffe Borough Council use Gradko diffusion tubes prepared using 20% Triethanolamine (TEA) in water to measure nitrogen dioxide at a number of sites across the Borough. The diffusion tubes are stored in an airtight bag in a refrigerator upon receipt in the post and are used within 6 weeks of the preparation date displayed on the label.

Tube batches are exposed at selected sites to the atmosphere for approximately 4 weeks with the changeover date aiming to be +/-one day of the published diffusion tube change over date for the month to allow comparison with other Local Authority studies if necessary. All tubes are mounted using spacer brackets and grommets supplied by Gradko.

Each tube is labelled with a bar code and unique identification number. Each batch is supplied with a data collection form to record the location, date and time each tube is exposed in that period. The exposure period is calculated using an Excel spreadsheet and in addition Gradko recheck the calculated exposure period for each tube on receipt at the laboratory.

On the day of collection, the tubes are sent in an airtight bag to Gradko International Limited for analysis, together with a control blank that is stored unexposed in the sample fridge. The diffusion tubes are analysed within the scope of Gradko International Limited Laboratory Quality Procedures utilising in-house Laboratory Method GLM7. Gradko is a UKAS accredited laboratory and undertakes diffusion tube monitoring and analyses on the same basis for a number of other local authorities and environmental consultants. All local authorities in the Nottinghamshire Pollution Working Group use Gradko for their diffusion tube monitoring and analyses.

Nitrogen dioxide absorbed as nitrite by TEA is determined by spectrophotometric measurement at 540nanometres. Nitrite reacts with the added reagent to form a reddish-purple azo dye and the optical density of this complex is measured using Camspec UV/Visible Spectrophotometer. The concentrations of nitrogen dioxide are then calculated from a pre-calibrated response factor and exposure times. The values are blank corrected using the blank ‘control’ diffusion tube provided by Rushcliffe Borough Council.

The accuracy of the measurements made by Gradko are monitored by participation in an external laboratory measurement proficiency scheme, the Workplace Analysis Scheme for Proficiency (WASP), implemented by the Health and Safety Laboratory in Sheffield. The results of the most recent WASP analysis are available LAQM - Diffusion Tube QA/QC Framework.

Data Ratification

All diffusion tube data is checked on a monthly basis to identify any spurious data and compared with other local monitoring sites to further identify any suspect data.

In 2020 monitoring was completed in adherence with the 2020 Diffusion Tube Monitoring Calendar with the exception of one month (April) when tubes were not exposed due to the COVID-19 lockdown which came into force at the end of March 2020. Therefore, there is no data available for April 2020 at any of the diffusion tube monitoring sites. Monitoring continued in accordance with the 2020 Diffusion Tube Monitoring Calendar from May onwards.

Diffusion Tube Annualisation

Annualisation is required for any site with data capture less than 75% but greater than 25%. Therefore, based on this criteria annualisation was required for one diffusion tube location (1HS) which had 8 months of data (66% data capture) for 2020. Annualisation was undertaken using the Diffusion Tube Data Processing Tool. The nearest continuous background site were Nottingham Centre (Defra UK-AIR ID: UKA00274), Leicester University (Defra UK-AIR ID: UKA00573) and Burton-on-Trent Horninglow (Defra UK-AIR ID: UKA00652) each of which had data capture greater than 85% for 2020. The annualisation tool calculated an average annualization factor of 1.05 from the data for the three continuous background sites which was used to adjust the raw data simple annual mean for location 1HS.

Diffusion Tube Bias Adjustment Factors

The diffusion tube data presented within the 2020 ASR have been corrected for bias using an adjustment factor. Bias represents the overall tendency of the diffusion tubes to under or over-read relative to the reference chemiluminescence analyser. LAQM.TG16 provides guidance with regard to the application of a bias adjustment factor to correct diffusion tube monitoring. Triplicate co-location studies can be used to determine a local bias factor based on the comparison of diffusion tube results with data taken from NOx/NO2 continuous analysers. Alternatively, the national database of diffusion tube co-location surveys provides bias factors for the relevant laboratory and preparation method.

Whilst we had the option of using either a local factor derived from co-location studies with the NOX analyser we have used the national bias adjustment factor as
The co-location sites are not typical of the locations of the diffusion tube study; and
The national bias adjustment factor has been used in previous Annual Status Reports. Continuing to use this factor will provide a consistent approach to bias adjustment year on year.

Rushcliffe Borough Council have applied a national bias adjustment factor of 0.81 to the 2020 monitoring data. This was derived from the national database of bias factors (Database_Diffusion_Tube_Bias_Factors_v03_21 v2) for Gradko tubes, 20% TEA in water and based on 18 studies. A summary of bias adjustment factors used by Rushcliffe Borough Council over the past five years is presented in the table below.

A comparison of the national bias adjustment factor with the local adjustment factor (based on two co-location sites) indicated the local adjustment factor was slightly higher at 0.93. As the raw diffusion tube data was well below the air quality objective of 40µg m^-3 the selection of the national factor over the local factor has no significant impact on the overall findings for 2020.

Bias Adjustment Factor
Year	Local or National	If National, Version of National Spreadsheet	Adjustment Factor
2020	National	03/21 v2	0.81
2019	National	03/20	0.93
2018	National	03/19	0.93
2017	National	03/18	0.89
2016	National	03/17	0.92

NO2 Fall-off with Distance from the Road

Wherever possible, local authorities should ensure that monitoring locations are representative of exposure. However, where this is not possible, the NO2 concentration at the nearest location relevant for exposure should be estimated using the Diffusion Tube Data Processing Tool/NO2 fall-off with distance calculator available on the LAQM Support website. Where appropriate, non-automatic annual mean NO2 concentrations corrected for distance are presented in Table B.1.

Distance correction should be considered at any monitoring site where the annual mean concentration is greater than 36µg m-3 and the monitoring site is not located at a point of relevant exposure (taking the limitations of the calculator into account). No diffusion tube NO2 monitoring locations within Rushcliffe Borough Council required distance correction during 2020 as the annual mean concentration was below 36µg m-3 for the two sites not representative of exposure (37RR and 1HS).

QA/QC of Automatic Monitoring

The NO2 continuous monitor within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge is located at the junction of Radcliffe Road and Loughborough Road, West Bridgford and is a permanent site. It was installed at this location in 2017 and is a ML9841B single chamber chemiluminescence analyser and is approved by TUV, USEPA and NETCEN. Within AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road a chemiluminescence analyser was installed adjacent to the dwelling façade in a Kaizen enclosure in early 2014.
The analysers have a resolution of 0.001ppm and a reported lower detection limit of <0.5ppb. The linearity error of the analyser is +/-1% of the full scale (from best line fit), and the precision is 0.5ppb or 1% of concentration reading (whichever is greater).

Instrument Checks and Calibration

Daily automated calibration: Zero air is generated by passing air through the scrubbers and the reaction cell. Span gas is generated by a permeation tube and passed to the reaction chamber to give the span calibration response. The daily automatic calibrations are used to check the instrument performance and drift.

Analyser Inspection and Manual Calibration: The analysers are covered by an annual service and maintenance contract to include calibration checks, flow and leak checks, cleaning of components, analyser diagnostic checks, replacement of faulty components and consumables and fault call-out.

Manual calibration checks are carried out by Rushcliffe Borough Council staff on a fortnightly basis using scrubbed zero air derived from the integrated scrubber column and a certified NO/NOX calibration gas is supplied by BOC gases. The BOC gas is changed when the certification expires. The analyser is taken out of service and the inlet filter changed prior to connecting the calibration gases. The zero air and NO/NOX gases are run through the analyser and the response times noted together with the instrument gain factor. The output of the analyser (eg the gain) is only reset or altered following equipment service or repair or if drift occurs necessitating a change of the gain setting. The calibration zero values, span values and gas certified values are used to rescale the raw data received from the analyser.

Validation: all data are continuously screened algorithmically and manually for anomalies. There are several techniques designed to discover spurious and unusual measurements within large datasets. These anomalies may be due to equipment failure, power failure, human error, interference or other disturbances. Automatic screening can only safely identify spurious results that need further manual investigation.

Raw data from the gaseous instruments are scaled into concentrations using the latest values derived from the automatic and manual calibrations. These instruments are not absolute and suffer drifts. Both the zero baseline and the sensitivity may change over time. Regular calibrations with certified gas standards are used to measure the zero and sensitivity. However, these are only valid for the moment of the calibration since the instrument will continue to drift.

Data Ratification

All raw data is examined for consistency and the existence of any spurious results. Negative values are examined and either removed or rescaled further and high values interrogated to see if the readings are consistent with expectations or an equipment error may have occurred. Data obtained during calibration checks is automatically excluded from the database by a software service switch on the instrument panel which is used during calibration checks.

If any doubts exist as to the satisfactory status of any data it is excluded from the database calculations. The reason for exclusion of a dataset is annotated against it to allow for traceability and data ratification. The most common reason for exclusion is monitor breakdown leading to consistently high or low readings. However, a power failure can also be a cause as can specific events noted by Officers during visits eg trucks/equipment in operation next to the monitor for building façade maintenance or similar.

Information from other analysers on the system can also be accessed to compare any data that may be experiencing high or low readings to enable a decision to be made on the status of any highlighted data. This includes the Automatic Urban and Rural Network (AURN) monitors operated by Nottingham City Council.

Air Quality Data Management (AQDM) prepare a monthly monitoring report of provisional measurements for the Rushcliffe and Nottingham network and every quarter the available information is critically assessed so that the best data scaling is applied and all anomalies are appropriately edited. Although this quarterly data processing helps build a reliable dataset as unexpected faults can be identified during the routine servicing or independent audits the data can only be fully ratified in 12 month or annual periods. Data ratification is undertaken by AQDM to LAQM (TG16) standards and reported for each of the two continuous monitors.

The data presented in this ASR has been ratified.

Automatic Monitoring Annualisation

All automatic monitoring locations within Rushcliffe Borough Council recorded data capture of greater than 75% therefore it was not required to annualise any monitoring data. In addition, any sites with a data capture below 25% do not require annualisation.

The NO2 annual data capture for the continuous monitor located in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge was 95.4% and 99.5% for the continuous monitor located in AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.

NO2 Fall-off with Distance from the Road

Wherever possible, local authorities should ensure that monitoring locations are representative of exposure. However, where this is not possible, the NO2 concentration at the nearest location relevant for exposure should be estimated using the NO2 fall-off with distance calculator available on the LAQM Support website. Where appropriate, non-automatic annual mean NO2 concentrations corrected for distance are presented in Table B.1.

No automatic NO2 monitoring locations within Rushcliffe Borough Council required distance correction during 2020.

Annualisation Summary (concentrations presented in µg m^-3)

Site ID: 1HS

Annualisation Factor Site 1 Nottingham Centre: 1.0475

Annualisation Factor Site 2 Leicester University: 1.0217

Annualisation Factor Site 3 Burton on Trent Horninglow: 1.0837

Annualisation Factor Site 4: No site

Average Annualisation Factor: 1.0510

Raw Data Mean: 23.3

Annualisation Annual Mean: 24.5

Comments: None

Notes:

A combined local bias adjustment factor of 0.93 has been used for comparison purposes with the national bias adjustment factor. The national factor has been used bias adjust the 2020 diffusion tube results.

Local Bias Adjustment Calculation

Local Bias Adjustment Input 1

Periods used to calculate bias: 10

Bias Factor A: 0.94 (0.85 - 1.05)

Bias factor B: 7% (-5% - 18%)

Diffusion tube mean (µg m^-3): -

Mean CV (precision): 32.5

Automatic mean (µg m^-3): 6.1%

Data capture: -

Adjusted tube mean (µg m^-3): 30.5

Local Bias Adjustment Input 2

Periods used to calculate bias:

Bias Factor A: 0.94 (0.85 - 1.05)

Bias factor B: 7% (-5% - 18%)

Diffusion tube mean (µg m^-3): -

Mean CV (precision): 32.5

Automatic mean (µg m^-3): 6.1%

Data capture: -

Adjusted tube mean (µg m^-3): 30.5

Appendix D: Maps of Monitoring Locations and AQMAs

Please note, maps can be found on the pdf version of this report. The Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 (3 - 1,033KB) has the following maps:

D.1 – Map Showing the Borough wide diffusion tube network

D.2 – Map Showing the diffusion tube network across West Bridgford

D.3 – Map Showing Location of AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge and continuous monitor and diffusion tube locations

D.4 – Map of AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road showing continuous monitor and diffusion tube locations

Appendix E: Summary of Air Quality Objectives in England

Air Quality Objectives in England
Pollutant	Air Quality Objective: Concentration (units in microgrammes of pollutant per cubic metre of air)	Air Quality Objective: Measured as
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)	200µg/m³ not to be exceeded more than 18 times a year	1 hour mean
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)	40µg/m³	Annual mean
Particulate Matter (PM₁₀)	50µg/m³, not to be exceeded more than 35 times a year	24 hour mean
Particulate Matter (PM₁₀)	40µg/m³	Annual mean
Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)	350µg/m³, not to be exceeded more than 24 times a year	1 hour mean
Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)	125µg/m³, not to be exceeded more than 3 times a year	24 hour mean
Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)	266µg/m³, not to be exceeded more than 35 times a year	15 minute mean

Appendix F: Impact of COVID-19 upon LAQM

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on society. Inevitably, COVID-19 has also had an impact on the environment, with implications to air quality at local, regional and national scales.

COVID-19 has presented various challenges for Local Authorities with respect to undertaking their statutory LAQM duties in the 2021 reporting year. Recognising this, Defra provided various advice updates throughout 2020 to English authorities, particularly concerning the potential disruption to air quality monitoring programmes, implementation of Air Quality Action Plans (AQAPs) and LAQM statutory reporting requirements. Defra has also issued supplementary guidance for LAQM reporting in 2021 to assist local authorities in preparing their 2021 ASR. Where applicable, this advice has been followed.

Despite the challenges that the pandemic has given rise to, the events of 2020 have also provided Local Authorities with an opportunity to quantify the air quality impacts associated with wide-scale and extreme intervention, most notably in relation to emissions of air pollutants arising from road traffic. The vast majority (>95%) of AQMAs declared within the UK are related to road traffic emissions, where attainment of the annual mean objective for nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is considered unlikely. On 23rd March 2020, the UK Government released official guidance advising all members of public to stay at home, with work-related travel only permitted when absolutely necessary. During this initial national lockdown (and to a lesser extent other national and regional lockdowns that followed), marked reductions in vehicle traffic were observed; Department for Transport (DfT) data (Prime Minister’s Office, COVID-19 briefing on the 31 May 2020) suggests reductions in vehicle traffic of up to 70% were experienced across the UK by mid-April, relative to pre COVID-19 levels.

This reduction in travel in turn gave rise to a change of air pollutant emissions associated with road traffic, i.e. nitrous oxides (NO_x), and exhaust and non-exhaust particulates (PM). The Air Quality Expert Group (AQEG) (Air Quality Expert Group, Estimation of changes in air pollution emissions, concentrations and exposure during the COVID-19 outbreak in the UK, June 2020) has estimated that during the initial lockdown period in 2020, within urbanised areas of the UK reductions in NO₂ annual mean concentrations were between 20 and 30% relative to pre-pandemic levels, which represents an absolute reduction of between 10 to 20µg/m³ if expressed relative to annual mean averages. During this period, changes in PM_2.5 concentrations were less marked than those of NO₂. PM_2.5 concentrations are affected by both local sources and the transport of pollution from wider regions, often from well beyond the UK. Through analysis of AURN monitoring data for 2018-2020, AQEG have detailed that PM_2.5 concentrations during the initial lockdown period are of the order 2 to 5µg/m³ lower relative to those that would be expected under business-as-usual conditions.

As restrictions are gradually lifted, the challenge is to understand how these air quality improvements can benefit the long-term health of the population.

Impacts of COVID-19 on Air Quality within Rushcliffe Borough Council

As discussed in Section 3 above at all locations across the network (automatic and non-automatic) the NO2 annual mean concentration was lower in 2020 than in any of the previous five years (where comparable data is available). In addition, the NO2 annual mean concentration air quality objective was not exceeded at any of our monitoring locations in 2020.

In summary:

Reductions of between 17% and 35% were observed for 2020 across the network in comparison to the NO2 annual mean concentrations for 2019;
For the monitoring locations (9 passive and 1 continuous) within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge the 2020 NO2 annual mean concentration was between 17% and 29% lower than in 2019;
For the period of the first national lockdown (April to June) when the reduction in road traffic based on national statistics was most marked the data shows a decrease in NO2 concentrations in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge of between 18% and 55% in comparison to the corresponding months in 2019. The biggest decrease (55%) was in the concentration recorded by the continuous monitor for April. It should be noted diffusion tube data is not available for April 2020. However, in May and June the reduction in the concentration was fairly consistent for the continuous monitor (44%) and the diffusion tubes (21% to 44%);
For the monitoring locations (2 passive and 1 continuous) within AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road the 2020 NO₂ annual mean concentration was between 17% and 29% lower than in 2019;
For the period of the first national lockdown (April to June) when the reduction in road traffic based on national statistics was most marked the data shows a decrease in NO₂ concentrations in AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road of between 16% and 62% in comparison to the corresponding months in 2019. The largest decrease (62%) was in the concentration recorded by diffusion tube at location A52/HHF1 in June 2020. It should be noted diffusion tube data is not available for April 2020. The continuous monitor showed a decrease of 25% (April), 49% (May) and 16% (June) when compared to the 2019 data;
Across the Borough diffusion tube network the largest reduction in the NO₂ monthly data (reduction in comparison to the same month in 2019) occurred in May and again in July. It should be noted diffusion tube data is not available for April 2020.
At the continuous monitors the largest reduction in comparison to the same month in 2019 were seen in April & May and again in October & November which would correspond to periods of national lockdown. The continuous monitor located in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge showed more prolonged decrease in NO₂ concentrations (in comparison to the 2019 data) ranging from 55% (April), 44% (May), 33% (June) and 37% (July). Whereas the decrease in concentrations in comparison to 2019 data was generally less marked at the continuous monitor located in AQMA No 1/2011Stragglethorpe Road ranging from 25% (April), 49% (May), 16% (June) and 9% (July). At both locations the decrease was in the region of 10% for August and September, rising again in Oct (34% and 23% respectively) and November (38% and 41% respectively). By December 2020 NO₂ concentrations were 3% less than the corresponding data at AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge and 9% in AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road.
Traffic count data provided by Nottingham City Council for the A60 Trent Bridge and the DfT Count Point 17853 also on the A60 show a 14% decrease in the Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) from 2019 to 2020. Nottinghamshire County Council have a counter on Loughborough Road also within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge which showed a similar decrease of 13% in traffic volumes in comparison to 2019. Although the provisional data currently available indicates the daily volume of HGVs travelling on major roads within AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge increased from 2019 to 2020 this is most likely as a result of major roadworks on the A52 Clifton Bridge (ring road) forcing traffic to use alternative routes through the City.
Within AQMA No 1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road traffic count data provided by Nottinghamshire County Council indicates a 26% decrease in the AADT from 2019 to 2020. The decrease in Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) was much lower at around 2% which is likely to be reflective of the fact that key industries (e.g. construction and logistics) continued to operate during the various periods of lockdown.
A chart that shows the continuous monitor data (Running 7-day plot) for the two continuous monitors for the period from January to August 2020 is contained in Air Quality Annual Status Report 2021 (3 - 1,033KB). The impact of national lockdown in March 2020 can be seen in AQMA No 1 Trent Bridge with an immediate decline in NO₂concentrations with dampened peaks. Whereas in AQMA No1/2011 Stragglethorpe Road the NO₂ levels did not change immediately.

Opportunities Presented by COVID-19 upon LAQM within Rushcliffe Borough Council

During the lockdown periods there was a general increase in the number of people cycling and walking in their local vicinity. Rushcliffe Borough Council are seeking to develop a Borough specific cycling strategy to sit alongside the County Council strategy to try to harness the enthusiasm for cycling developed during the pandemic.

Challenges and Constraints Imposed by COVID-19 upon LAQM within Rushcliffe Borough Council

The COVID-19 pandemic imposed challenges and constraints on all local authorities for example staff were redeployed to deal with the impact of lockdown and the application of guidance; increase in the number of noise/dust/odour complaints as more people worked from home; staff unable to undertake routine site visits and staff having to self-isolate.

Within Rushcliffe Borough Council the impact on LAQM is not considered to be significant with monitoring continuing as usual, with the exception of April 2020. Where relevant, an impact rating has been provided below for each challenge and/or constraint in line with guidance presented within the LAQM Impact Matrix provided shown below.

It was not possible to put the diffusion tubes out across the monitoring network in April 2020 therefore there is no data available for this period. The monitoring was unaffected for the remainder of the year with data capture of greater than 75% at all locations with one exception. No Impact.
As with previous years, a national bias adjustment factor has been utilised to adjust the diffusion tube results for 2020. Within 2019 there were 27 co-location studies that were utilised to calculate the bias factor for the laboratory and preparation method used. For 2020, this number has reduced to 18 studies. There is therefore the potential for there to be a greater degree of uncertainty associated with the resultant annual mean NO2 concentrations in 2020 than in previous years. Medium Impact.
A consolidated revised AQAP is being developed for AQMA 1 and AQMA 2. However, owing to the reallocation of Council resources during 2020, the development and implementation of the AQAP has been delayed. An initial consultation has been undertaken with our key partners and current estimates are that the revised AQAP will be issued for public consultation in July 2021. Small Impact.

The impacts as presented above are aligned with the criteria as defined in the table below, with professional judgement considered as part of their application.

Impact Matrix

Impact Matrix
Category	Impact Rating: None	Impact Rating: Small	Impact Rating: Medium	Impact Rating: Large
Automatic Monitoring – Data Capture (%)	More than 75% data capture	50% to 75% data capture	25% to 50% data capture	Less than 25% data capture
Automatic Monitoring – QA/QC Regime	Adherence to requirements as defined in LAQM.TG16	Routine calibrations taken place frequently but not to normal regime. Audits undertaken alongside service and maintenance programmes	Routine calibrations taken place infrequently and service and maintenance regimes adhered to. No audit achieved	Routine calibrations not undertaken within extended period (eg 3 to 4 months). Interruption to service and maintenance regime and no audit achieved
Passive Monitoring – Data Capture (%)	More than 75% data capture	50% to 75% data capture	25% to 50% data capture	Less than 25% data capture
Passive Monitoring – Bias Adjustment Factor	Bias adjustment undertaken as normal	Less than 25% impact on normal number of available bias adjustment colocation studies (2020 vs 2019)	25-50% impact on normal number of available bias adjustment studies (2020 vs 2019)	More than 50% impact on normal number of available bias adjustment studies (2020 vs 2019) and/or applied bias adjustment factor studies not considered representative of local regime
Passive Monitoring – Adherence to Changeover Dates	Defra diffusion tube exposure calendar adhered to	Tubes left out for two exposure periods	Tubes left out for three exposure periods	Tubes left out for more than three exposure periods
Passive Monitoring – Storage of Tubes	Tubes stored in accordance with laboratory guidance and analysed promptly	Tubes stored for longer than normal but adhering to laboratory guidance	Tubes unable to be stored according to be laboratory guidance but analysed prior to expiry date	Tubes stored for so long that they were unable to be analysed prior to expiry date. Data unable to be used
AQAP – Measure Implementation	Unaffected	Short delay (less than 6 months) in development of a new AQAP, but is on-going	Long delay (more than 6 months) in development of a new AQAP, but is on-going	No progression in development of a new AQAP
AQAP – New AQAP Development	Unaffected	Short delay (less than 6 months) in development of a new AQAP, but is on-going	Long delay (more than 6 months) in development of a new AQAP, but is on-going	No progression in development of a new AQAP

Glossary of Terms

Glossary of Terms
Abbreviation	Description
AADT	Annual Average Daily Traffic
AQAP	Air Quality Action Plan - A detailed description of measures, outcomes, achievement dates and implementation methods, showing how the local authority intends to achieve air quality limit values’
AQDM	Air Quality Data Management
AQMA	Air Quality Management Area – An area where air pollutant concentrations exceed / are likely to exceed the relevant air quality objectives. AQMAs are declared for specific pollutants and objectives
AQO	Air Quality Objective
AQS	Air Quality Standard
ASR	Annual Status Report
AURN	Automatic Urban and Rural Network (Defra) - UK's largest automatic monitoring network and is the main network used for compliance reporting against the Ambient Air Quality Directives. It includes automatic air quality monitoring stations measuring oxides of nitrogen (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO) and particles (PM10, PM2.5)
D2N2	Local Enterprise Network area covering Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
Defra	Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
DfT	Department for Transport
DMRB	Design Manual for Roads and Bridges – Air quality screening tool produced by Highways England
EMAQN	East Midlands Air Quality Network
EU	European Union
EVCP	Electric Vehicle Charging Points
FDMS	Filter Dynamics Measurement System
HE	Highways England
HGV	Heavy Goods Vehicle
LAQM	Local Air Quality Management
LTP	Local Transport Plan
NCC	Nottinghamshire County Council
NO₂	Nitrogen Dioxide
NO_X	Nitrogen Oxides
NPWG	Nottinghamshire Pollution Working Group
OLEV	Office for Low Emission Vehicles (now known as OZEV Office for Zero Emission Vehicles)
OZEV	Office for Zero Emission Vehicles
PHE	Public Health England
PM₁₀	Airborne particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10µm or less
PM_2.5	Airborne particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5µm or less
QA/QC	Quality Assurance and Quality Control
RBC	Rushcliffe Borough Council
SO₂	Sulphur Dioxide

References

Air Quality Strategy for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 2020-2030. Published by Nottingham City Council in partnership with the Nottinghamshire Local Authorities.
Local Air Quality Management Technical Guidance LAQM.TG16. April 2021. Published by Defra in partnership with the Scottish Government, Welsh Assembly Government and Department of the Environment Northern Ireland.
Local Air Quality Management Policy Guidance LAQM.PG16. May 2016. Published by Defra in partnership with the Scottish Government, Welsh Assembly Government and Department of the Environment Northern Ireland.

Accessible Documents

Air Quality Annual Status Report 2022

2022 Air Quality Annual Status Report (ASR)

In fulfilment of Part IV of the Environment Act 1995 Local Air Quality Management

Table of Contents

Executive Summary: Air Quality in Our Area

Air Quality in Rushcliffe Borough Council

Actions to Improve Air Quality

Conclusions and Priorities

Local Engagement and How to Get Involved

Local Responsibilities and Commitment

1 Local Air Quality Management

2 Actions to Improve Air Quality

2.1 Air Quality Management Areas

Declared Air Quality Management Areas

2.2 Progress and Impact of Measures to address Air Quality in Rushcliffe Borough Council

2.3 PM2.5 – Local Authority Approach to Reducing Emissions and/or Concentrations

3 Air Quality Monitoring Data and Comparison with Air Quality Objectives and National Compliance

3.1 Summary of Monitoring Undertaken

3.1.1 Automatic Monitoring Sites

3.1.2 Non-Automatic Monitoring Sites

3.2 Individual Pollutants

3.2.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

3.2.2 Particulate Matter (PM10)

3.2.3 Particulate Matter (PM2.5)

3.2.4 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

Appendix A: Monitoring Results

Details of Automatic Monitoring Sites

Site ID - Trent Bridge

Site ID - Holme House

Details of Non-Automatic Monitoring Sites

Diffusion Tube ID - WLR/2

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/SA

Diffusion Tube ID - CL

Diffusion Tube ID - HR

Diffusion Tube ID - LR

Diffusion Tube ID - Fern Road

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/RT

Diffusion Tube ID - RR

Diffusion Tube ID - TBLA

Diffusion Tube ID - TBLB

Diffusion Tube ID - TBI

Diffusion Tube ID - WL3

Diffusion Tube ID - WW

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/HHF1

Diffusion Tube ID - A52/HHF2

Diffusion Tube ID - 15KHG

Diffusion Tube ID - RuRo

Diffusion Tube ID - 2LA

Diffusion Tube ID - Trent B1

Diffusion Tube ID - DS 1

Diffusion Tube ID - Mag 1

Diffusion Tube ID - Mag 2

Diffusion Tube ID - LR 1

Diffusion Tube ID - WL 1

Diffusion Tube ID - NK 1

Diffusion Tube ID - TSQ

Diffusion Tube ID - Sains

Diffusion Tube ID - Rempton

Diffusion Tube ID - The Green

Diffusion Tube ID - A52 Bass

Annual Mean NO2 Monitoring Results: Automatic Monitoring (µg m-3)

Site ID - Trent Bridge

Site ID - A52 Holme House

Annual Mean NO2 Monitoring Results: Non-Automatic Monitoring (µg m-3)

Monitoring Charts

1-Hour Mean NO2 Monitoring Results, Number of 1-Hour Means > 200µg m-3

Site ID - Trent Bridge

Site ID - A52 Holme House

Appendix B: Full Monthly Diffusion Tube Results for 2020

Appendix C: Supporting Technical Information / Air Quality Monitoring Data QA/QC

New or Changed Sources Identified Within Rushcliffe Borough Council During 2020

Additional Air Quality Works Undertaken by Rushcliffe Borough Council During 2020

QA/QC of Diffusion Tube Monitoring

Nitrogen Dioxide Diffusion Tube Monitoring

Data Ratification

QA/QC of Automatic Monitoring

Instrument Checks and Calibration

Data Ratification

Annualisation Summary (concentrations presented in µg m-3)

Local Bias Adjustment Calculation

2.3 PM_2.5– Local Authority Approach to Reducing Emissions and/or Concentrations

3.2.1 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

3.2.2 Particulate Matter (PM₁₀)

3.2.3 Particulate Matter (PM_2.5)

3.2.4 Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)

Annual Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results: Automatic Monitoring (µg m^-3)

Annual Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results: Non-Automatic Monitoring (µg m^-3)

1-Hour Mean NO₂ Monitoring Results, Number of 1-Hour Means > 200µg m^-3

Annualisation Summary (concentrations presented in µg m^-3)