Air quality zones in parts of Huntingdonshire to be removed

Three air quality management areas will be revoked after readings showed there was no longer a concerning amount of "toxic" air pollution

People in parts of Huntingdonshire are breathing cleaner air today than they were 18 years ago, it has emerged.

Three air quality management areas will be revoked after readings showed there was no longer a concerning amount of "toxic" air pollution.

The areas were introduced in 2005 and 2006 amid concerns about nitrogen dioxide levels in the air.

The objective of the designation was to see the levels of air pollution improve.

The air quality areas covered St Neots, Brampton and the area between Hemingford and Fenstanton.

The designation meant, for example, that new developments had to ensure there was no increase in air pollution levels as a result.

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A Huntingdonshire District Council report said the levels of nitrogen dioxide had improved and recommended lifting the designations.

One zone covering Huntingdon will remain in place.

The report said there were a number of likely contributors to the improved air quality, including the relocation of the A14, the stricter emission standards for cars and stricter industrial emission limits.

At a meeting of the district council's licensing and protection committee on Thursday, councillors voted in favour of revoking three of the management management areas.

Officers said air quality in the areas affected would continue to be monitored adding if the air quality dropped, they could reintroduce the designation.