MEASURES to improve air quality in Carlisle have been set out in a new plan.

Carlisle City Council is urging people to share their views on the Air Quality Action Plan before January 11.

The new draft plan, which replaces an action plan from 2012, looks at the likely causes of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and details 12 measures that are expected to reduce levels over the next five years.

The council's priorities are to improve traffic flow at the Bridge Street junction and reduce the number of vehicles stopping at the pedestrian crossing, to continue to progress the southern bypass project and for planners to ensure air quality implications are considered within the planning process.

Councillor Nigel Christian, portfolio holder for Environment and Transport, said: “We are committed to improving air quality in Carlisle. In addition to the obvious health benefits for our residents, it is also an important issue for the conservation of our local environment.

“Our Air Quality Action Plan has been developed with key partners such as transport planners, the Environment Agency and the Highways Agency. Air quality is really important, and we’d like feedback on the draft plan. Please take time to have your say.”

The measures listed within the draft Air Quality Action Plan are:

· Construction of the new Carlisle bypass extension to the south of the city and to monitor the air quality impacts of this along with the Carlisle Northern Development Route

· To implement effective traffic management measures to improve traffic flow on the existing road network and in new developments

· Environmental Health will work alongside the Planning Department to minimise the air quality impacts of new developments

· Improvements to passenger transport infrastructure, with sustainable transport integrated into major new developments

· Encouragement of cycling and walking and to implement new and improved pedestrian and cycle links

· Travel plans will be required for all new developments that meet the criteria. Existing businesses will be encouraged to implement, monitor and review travel plans

· The council will continue to provide comprehensive environmental control over emissions from all Part A2 and B Processes located within the local authority area

· The council will continue to investigate complaints of black smoke and smoke nuisance as well as managing smokeless zones, with necessary enforcement action taken

· Provision of home improvement grants and energy saving advice to the public

· Environmental Health will work alongside the Neighbourhoods and Green Spaces team to implement the effective use of trees and green areas to offset traffic derived emissions

· Air Quality considerations to be included in all relevant city and county Council policies and strategies.

· Promotion of air quality and sustainable transport issues. Air quality information and monitoring data will be provided to the public

Visit carlisle.gov.uk/Residents/Environmental-Problems/Pollution-and-Air-Quality to view the report.

Share your views by emailing environmentalhealth@carlisle.gov.uk or write to Environmental Health, Carlisle City Council, Civic Centre, Carlisle, CA3 8QG.