Air quality in Brighton and Hove around 50% cleaner than a decade ago
The city council claims a reduction in bus emissions is a big factor
Last updated 6th Dec 2022
People in Brighton and Hove are breathing much cleaner air than a decade ago, according to new research.
Data shows nitrogen dioxide levels have fallen by at least half in key areas including North Street, on the Eastern Road, and on the A23 at Valley Gardens.
Officials are putting it down to a reduction in bus emissions around those areas.
Brighton & Hove Buses have also invested almost £18 million on 54 hybrid vehicles which are powered by a battery when travelling through the city centre.
Now the authority is looking to make further improvements through its Air Quality Action Plan, which sets out more than 60 actions for not only improving the air we breathe, but to go beyond meeting the UK minimum requirements.
Councillor Steve Davis, Co-Chair of the Environment, Transport and Sustainability committee said: “These figures show some excellent progress in improving air quality in key areas of the city, but we know there is still work to be done.
“We’ve shown that by working in partnership with local bus operators, we can reduce harmful emissions without impacting on the quality of services for our residents and visitors.
“I was very happy to see our Air Quality Action Plan approved at committee last month which I’m sure will deliver on its targets for further air quality improvements over the next five years and beyond.
“Air pollution is a huge cause of premature death in the UK and we need to do everything possible to improve the quality of the air we all breathe.”