Cabinet endorses 'vital step' for air quality
Cabinet councillors have agreed a comprehensive Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) aimed at tackling air pollution across the district.
The AQAP focuses on five strategic themes: promoting alternatives to private vehicle use, encouraging active travel and public transport, enhancing public information, improving transport planning and infrastructure, and implementing effective traffic management. These measures are designed to reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels, the primary pollutant of concern in the district, which is mainly generated by traffic.
Councillor Emily O'Brien (image attached), Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature and Food Systems, welcomed the plan's adoption. She said:
"This is a vital step forward for the health and wellbeing of our residents. Cleaner air means healthier lives, and this plan shows our commitment to delivering meaningful change in partnership with our communities."
The plan incorporates feedback from a public consultation held in spring 2025. It also outlines ongoing monitoring of School Hill in Lewes, where elevated NO₂ levels were recorded in 2024 - the council will continue working with East Sussex County Council to assess traffic data and determine appropriate interventions in this location.
Councillor O'Brien added: "By taking action now, we're not only meeting our legal duties, but also creating a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable future for Lewes district."
The AQAP will be reviewed annually and integrated into the emerging Lewes Local Plan, aligning with planning policies on health, pollution, and sustainable design.
To view Air Quality Action Plan please visit:
Lewes District Air Quality Action Plan
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