Council reports fall in air pollution in Macclesfield

Cheshire East Council has revoked an air quality management area for Park Lane, Macclesfield, following a drop in pollution levels.

The Park Lane area was among seven air pollution hotspots in Cheshire East to have seen improvements following the introduction of air quality management areas.

While the coronavirus pandemic has seen a significant reduction air pollution in Macclesfield and other towns across the region as more commuters work from home, improved vehicle technology and new and improved highways schemes have also been attributed to cleaner air. The decision to revoke the air quality management area on Park Lane, Macclesfield, was informed by pollution data over the past five years.

Cllr Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities, said:

Tackling air pollution is a key priority for this council due to the potential impact on the health of our residents and visitors.

“Our priorities are to tackle vehicular emissions by applying targeted measures for the remaining air quality management areas, as well as taking a holistic approach across the whole of the borough.

“We are committed to improving air quality across Cheshire East and now our residents can have their say and share ideas to help develop a revised and robust air quality action plan.”

Cheshire East Council is currently reviewing its response to air pollution in the borough as a result of the observed improvements. Consultation on a draft air quality action plan is open until 5pm on 12 March 2021 and anyone interested in air quality across Cheshire East is welcome to contribute.