Air Quality Assessment for Planning and Development
Air quality is a key requirement within planning, particularly in London, where pollution levels are closely monitored. Many developments must now provide an air quality assessment report to progress through planning, and early evaluation can significantly improve approval outcomes. Focus 360 Energy supports developers, architects and planners with evidence-based assessments designed for submission and compliance.
When is an Air Quality Assessment Required for Planning?
An air quality assessment for planning is needed when a proposed development could increase emissions or sit within an area of existing poor air quality. Local authorities commonly request an air quality impact assessment for schemes located near high-traffic zones, or those involving biomass boilers or gas CHP systems. In London, especially, planning applications without a formal report risk delays or refusal.
Importance of Air Quality in Development
Air quality affects public health, environmental resilience and the overall suitability of a site for occupation. Poor air conditions increase health risk, contribute to climate challenges and place pressure on local infrastructure. Focus 360 Energy helps ensure developments demonstrate responsibility, compliance and positive environmental impact through detailed assessment reporting.
Causes of Air Quality Impact in Planning
Air quality issues within planning proposals often originate from:
- Industrial and commercial operations
- Vehicle emissions and road traffic
- Construction activity and machinery use
- Energy generation systems, including CHP
- Ventilation and combustion processes
These pollutants can remain in the atmosphere for extended periods and contribute to long-term degradation. An air quality impact assessment identifies these sources and evaluates their potential effects.
Impact of Poor Air Quality on Planning Outcomes
Poor air quality has a direct influence on the planning process. It can impact resident wellbeing, harm local ecosystems and increase long-term public health pressures. Air quality assessments carried out by Focus 360 Energy support risk reduction and can prevent costly redesign or objections at the planning stage.
Air Quality Laws and Planning Regulations
Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, retained legislation remains central to planning requirements. The Air Quality Directive and National Emission Ceilings Directive still apply, alongside local frameworks such as Air Quality Management Areas and the London Environment Strategy. Focus 360 Energy aligns reporting with all relevant guidance for planning submission.
Air Quality Assessment Services for Planning and Development
Air quality assessment services may include outdoor dispersion modelling, emissions calculations and baseline monitoring. Indoor assessments can also be provided where ventilation or occupancy risk needs evaluation. Focus 360 Energy delivers full assessment support tailored to planning conditions and development type.
Air Quality Assessment Report Methodology
Reports are produced using pollutant monitoring, emission appraisal and recognised modelling software. A Focus 360 Energy air quality assessment report presents clear results, mitigation recommendations and planning-ready documentation for submission.
Related Services
Air Quality Assessment for Planning and Development is frequently combined with the following additional services:
Noise Impact Assessments
Find out moreAir Quality Assessments
Find out moreDaylight & Sunlight Assessments
Find out moreSustainability Statement
Find out moreEnergy Statements for Planning Applications
Find out moreWhole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment
Find out moreChoosing Focus 360 Energy for Air Quality Planning Support
Focus 360 Energy provides air quality assessment, London reporting and planning support across the UK. We guide clients through monitoring, modelling, risk evaluation and planning documentation. Contact us to request a tailored air quality assessment report and progress your development with confidence.
Click the Get a Quote link to access our online portal, or use the form to share brief details about your project and we will respond promptly.
Why choose Focus 360 Energy
Specialist Expertise in Air Quality and Planning
Our team delivers robust air quality assessments, planning support and London-specific reporting, ensuring your project meets all regulatory expectations.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Modelling
We carry out detailed monitoring, predictive modelling and impact evaluation to give you a clear understanding of risks and required mitigation measures.
Clear, Planning-Ready Documentation
All reports are produced to a standard suitable for submission to local authorities, helping streamline your planning process and reduce the risk of delays.
Tailored Assessment for Every Development
We customise every assessment to the site, scale and sensitivity of your project, providing accurate, relevant and cost-effective recommendations.
Dependable Guidance Throughout the Process
From initial scoping to final reporting, we support you at every stage so you can progress your development with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
An air quality assessment for planning evaluates how a development may affect local air pollution levels. It forms part of planning evidence for authorities and is often required in London and other urban areas.
Not all projects require a report, but any scheme likely to influence emissions or located near areas of poor air quality may be asked to submit one. Local authorities decide based on risk, traffic impact and site sensitivity.
An impact assessment typically covers baseline pollution levels, emissions modelling, predicted future concentrations and recommended mitigation. Focus 360 Energy provides reports designed specifically for planning submission.
Air quality should be assessed during concept or pre-application stage to avoid redesign, objection or refusal. Early modelling can support design decisions and improve planning outcomes.
Cost depends on site scale, modelling complexity and required reporting detail. Focus 360 Energy provides tailored quotations based on development type and planning requirements.
Reports should be produced by qualified consultants with an understanding of dispersion modelling, planning policy and emissions forecasting. Focus 360 Energy delivers assessments for London and wider UK developments.
