Purpose

1. Note the contents of the Clean Air Zone Feasibility study report, its conclusions and recommendations

2. To report the findings in full to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

3. To pursue the recommended option of working in partnership with Surrey County Council (SCC) and or any devolved representative authority.

4. To revise the draft Air Quality Action Plan, dated August 2022 to reflect the outcomes of the economic feasibility study following engagement and discussion with SCC on the shortlisted actions/measures.

5. To report back on the revised draft Air Quality Action Plan within six months.

Decision

Decision:

1. Note the contents of the Clean Air Zone Feasibility study report, its conclusions and recommendations;
2. To report the findings in full to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra);
3. To pursue the recommended option of working in partnership with Surrey County Council (SCC) and or any devolved representative authority;
4. To revise the draft Air Quality Action Plan, dated August 2022, to reflect the outcomes of the economic feasibility study following engagement and discussion with SCC on the shortlisted actions/measures; and
5. To report back on the revised draft Air Quality Action Plan within six months.

Reason(s):

1. The studies carried out by Buro Happold consultants on the Economic Feasibility of a Clean Air Zone are part of the Air Quality Action Plan for Guildford Town Centre and Shalford Air Quality Management Areas.
2. The details of both reports will be presented at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee by the author Professor Margarethe Theseira with officers in attendance.
3. To ensure the Council meets its statutory duties in relation to air quality and the submission of Air Quality Annual Status Reports under the Environment Act 1995.
4. The report aims to provide the Committee with an update on progress of air quality projects and other statutory air quality priorities in fulfilment of Part IV of the Environment Act 1995 Local Air Quality Management, as amended by the Environment Act 2021.
5. Whilst the study is a large part of the Air Quality Action Plan for Guildford Town Centre, the final plan requires some additional air quality assessments which the original consultants Air Pollution Services Ltd have been earmarked to complete in the financial year 2026/27. This was delayed due to the lack of funding available in 2025/26.

Other options considered and rejected by the Executive:

Option 2: Pursue the Clean Air Zone concept by requesting that Surrey County Council formally assess the viability, under their Transport Act 2000 powers.

Details of any conflict of interest declared by the Leader or lead councillors and any dispensation granted:

None.