Council seeks views on air quality plan
People are being invited to have their say on a draft plan that outlines council proposals to improve air quality across Lewes district over the next four years.
Councillor Emily O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems, said: "Improving air quality is one of our key priorities and this draft plan contains tangible steps to protect the health of our residents and create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone."
It is estimated that the costs of air pollution in England to health and social care services could reach between £5.3 and 18.6 billion between 2018 and 2035.
Air pollution is associated with a number of adverse health impacts and 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 and older people, and those with heart and lung conditions.
The draft AQAP focuses on five key themes: alternatives to private vehicle use; promoting travel alternatives; public information; transport planning and infrastructure; and traffic management.
Projects delivered under previous action plans include the Beddingham Crossing improvements, the Lewes Town Centre 20mph zone, the Living Cliffe pedestrian zone in Cliffe High Street, and improved cycling facilities across the district.
Residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to read the draft Air Quality Action Plan at lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/AQAPconsultation and provide feedback through an online survey.
The consultation launched today (March 21) will run until 5pm on Friday 15 May 2025.
Councillor O'Brien added: "This is a partnership exercise, and a range of organisations have suggested measures they can take for the draft plan, but it is crucial that we hear from our community to ensure that the plan reflects local needs and priorities. I encourage everyone to participate in the consultation and help improve the future of air quality in our district."
Following a review of feedback given during the consultation, the AQAP is expected to be adopted from summer 2025.
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