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Ipswich council seeks resident's views on air quality management changes

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Ipswich Borough Council is proposing to revoke one of its Air Quality Management Areas due to falling pollution levels. Residents are invited to share their views on the plans.

The big picture: The council currently has four Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) in place to address high levels of nitrogen dioxide. As pollution has decreased, one of these areas may now be revoked.

What are AQMAs? AQMAs are geographical areas where local authorities declare that air pollution levels are, or are likely to be, higher than national air quality objectives.

  • They aim to protect the environment and people's health.

  • Local authorities declare AQMAs when they identify areas where air quality objectives are not likely to be met.

  • Once declared, local authorities create a Local Air Quality Action Plan to improve air quality in the area.

A car exhaust
The council attributes the improvements to changes in commuting patterns post-COVID and increased use of electric vehiclesSerge CornuGetty Images

Key details:

  • The AQMA proposed for revocation covers the area around the junction of Norwich Road, Chevallier Street and Valley Road, extending to Providence Lane.

  • This follows a sustained improvement in air quality over five years.

  • The council will continue monitoring pollution levels across Ipswich.

What they're saying: Councillor John Cook, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Sport, said: "We're pleased that levels of air pollution across the town are steadily improving, and that sustained improvement over five years at this location means Government guidance is to revoke this AQMA."

Between the lines: The council attributes the improvements to changes in commuting patterns post-COVID and increased use of electric vehicles.

What's next: The public consultation on these proposals closes on Sunday 27 October 2024.

How to participate: Residents can email their comments to environmental.health@ipswich.gov.uk.

The bottom line: While one AQMA may be revoked, the council says it will continue efforts to reduce pollution further through its Air Quality Action Plan.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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