Decision

RESOLVED

That the Air Quality Action Plan 2026-2031 contained in Appendix A to the report be approved.

REASONS

The AQAP has been prepared as part of the Council's statutory duties in relation to the Storrington AQMA. It sets out the actions that the Council and its partners will take to improve air quality in the Storrington AQMA, as well as in the wider Horsham District, during the period 2026-2031. The AQAP provides an updated framework for delivering air quality improvements, reflects current evidence and local priorities, and supports the achievement of national air quality objectives. Approval of the AQAP will enable the Council to fulfil its responsibilities under the Environment Act 1995 and associated statutory guidance, and provide a coordinated approach to improving air quality and protecting public health through partnership working and ongoing monitoring of progress.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED BUT REJECTED AS IDENTIFIED IN THE REPORT

Option 1: Retain the existing Air Quality Action Plan without update

This option was rejected because local authorities are required to regularly review and update their Air Quality Action Plans to ensure that actions remain relevant, evidence-based, and aligned with current local air quality challenges, legislation, national policy, and funding opportunities. Retaining the existing plan would not reflect current conditions and could result in the Council failing to meet its statutory obligations.

Option 2: Limiting the AQAP to the Storrington AQMA only

This option was rejected because air pollution is not confined to the AQMA boundary and some pollutants can be transported over wider geographical areas. A district-wide approach enables the Council to address both local and wider sources of pollution, recognising that improvements achieved elsewhere in the District may contribute to improved air quality within the AQMA. It also provides a more strategic and preventative framework for protecting public health and improving air quality across the District.

Option 3: Delay adoption of the updated Air Quality Action Plan

This option was rejected as it would postpone the implementation of updated measures designed to improve air quality and protect public health. Delaying adoption could also hinder the Council's ability to demonstrate progress in addressing air quality issues and meeting obligations under the statutory guidance, including the requirement to revise the action plan every five years.

Option 4: Take no further action following completion of the review

This option was rejected because the review identified the need for an updated action plan to reflect current evidence, priorities, and partnership working arrangements. Failure to adopt an updated AQAP would limit the Council's strategic approach to improving air quality and could have adverse implications for compliance with national guidance and public health objectives.