Air quality is now a key focus for local councils and planning authorities in the UK. If your project involves construction, demolition, or changes to land use, you may be asked to provide an air quality assessment (AQA) as part of your planning application.
But when exactly is this required, and how can a professional air quality report help your project succeed?
What Is an Air Quality Assessment?
An air quality assessment evaluates how a proposed project might affect local air quality — both during construction and once operational. These reports are often essential for:
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New residential or commercial developments
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Large-scale construction projects
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Industrial sites with emissions or odours
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Road infrastructure or traffic-heavy developments
When Is an Air Quality Assessment Required?
Local councils or the Environment Agency (EA) typically request an AQA when:
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The project is close to Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) where pollution levels already exceed legal limits.
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There are concerns about dust, odour, or emissions affecting nearby residents.
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The project could increase traffic or create new sources of pollutants.
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It’s required for planning permission or environmental permits.
What’s Included in an Air Quality Assessment?
A professional AQA usually covers:
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Baseline air quality monitoring (PM10, NO₂, VOCs, etc.).
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Dispersion modelling to predict future pollutant levels.
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Dust risk assessments for construction phases.
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Mitigation measures (e.g., dust suppression, traffic management).
Why It’s Important for Planning Permission
Without a valid air quality report, councils can delay or reject planning applications. A well-prepared assessment demonstrates:
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That you have evaluated environmental impacts.
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That you can minimise risks to local communities.
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Compliance with national air quality standards and planning requirements.
How Alkali Environmental Can Help
At Alkali Environmental, we provide:
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Comprehensive air quality assessments tailored to your project.
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Construction dust monitoring and mitigation plans.
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Odour and VOC assessments for sensitive developments.
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Expert liaison with planning officers and councils to keep your project moving.
FAQs
Q: Do small projects need an air quality assessment?
Not always — but even small developments in sensitive locations (e.g., near schools or AQMAs) may require one.
Q: How long does an assessment take?
Most projects take 2–4 weeks from initial site survey to final report.
Q: Can Alkali handle both air quality assessments and planning support?
Yes — we provide end-to-end support, from monitoring to final submission.
Need help with your planning application or air quality compliance?
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