Drivers could see clean air restrictions removed after success of lower speed limits and cycle-only areas

Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) were initially established due to high levels of nitrogen dioxide, with the Council implementing an Air Quality Action Plan with various measures aimed at reducing pollution such as lower speed limits and pedestrian/cycle only areas.

Currently, Ipswich has four AQMAs in place. However, sustained improvements in air quality over the past five years have led to the potential revocation of one such area, in line with Government guidance.

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This move reflects a positive trend in Ipswich's air quality, signalling progress in the town's efforts to create a cleaner, healthier environment for its residents.

The specific area which could see the AQMA revokes is around the junction of Norwich Road, Chevallier Street and Valley Road. This area extends along Chevallier Street to the junction with Providence Lane.

Councillor John Cook 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.

“My belief is that post-Covid changes to commuting patterns and the move to electric vehicles - in which the council has led the way - have helped reduce pollutants.

“We will continue to promote measures in our Air Quality Action Plan and strive to reduce pollution even further.”

The proposed removal of the is subject to public consultation, allowing residents to provide feedback on the plans.

Despite this potential relaxation, Ipswich Borough Council said it remains committed to monitoring air quality across the town.

The Council will continue to assess pollution levels at multiple sites throughout the borough. Data from this ongoing monitoring will inform future decisions and actions regarding air quality.

The consultation will run for four weeks until Sunday, October 27, with drivers and residents urged to share their opinions.

The council explained: “The consultation is open to everyone, and we would like to hear your views on the document. There are currently four AQMAs in Ipswich and the Council is now able to revoke the boundary of one AQMA due to falling levels of pollution.

“All responses will be fully considered and, if appropriate, changes will be made to the proposals prior to any adoption by the council in 2024.”

Monitoring of nitrogen dioxide will continue at several locations across Ipswich using diffusion tubes, the council stated.

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This will help ensure that the AQMAs remain relevant and can identify other areas of poor air quality, and will, over time, give an indication of any improvement in air quality.