Cleaner air for West Oxfordshire as council plans new district-wide strategy

Councillor Alistair Wray, Executive Member for Environment, said: “It's really positive news that air quality has improved in Witney and Chipping Norton. Cleaner air is better for everyone's health, particularly children, older people and those with breathing problems. But we know there is still more to do. We want to build on this progress and make sure improving air quality remains a priority for communities across West Oxfordshire.” 

Air quality has been closely monitored in parts of Witney and Chipping Norton since 2005, when high levels of nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant mainly caused by vehicle exhaust fumes, led to both areas being declared Air Quality Management Areas (designated zones where national air quality objectives are not being met). 

Monitoring now shows that pollution levels in both towns have remained below the national threshold for at least three consecutive years and are now required to revoke both Air Quality Management Areas. 

The improvements are thought to be due to several factors, including fewer journeys following the Covid pandemic, cleaner vehicle engines and more people choosing electric and lower-emission vehicles. The impact on air quality of the recent completion to the Shores Green junction in Witney is not yet known, but the reduction in traffic travelling through the town centre is expected to further reduce pollution. 

As a result, the Council is now in a position to revoke the Air Quality Management Areas in Witney (centred on Bridge Street) and in Chipping Norton (centred on High Street and Horsefair), in line with Government guidance. 

The Council plans to develop a new district-wide Air Quality Strategy over the next 12 months, replacing the current approach which focuses mainly on the two towns. 

While the Government requires councils to monitor and improve air quality, the powers and funding available to tackle some of the main causes of pollution are limited. For example, decisions about roads and traffic management are made by Oxfordshire County Council. 

The new strategy will recognise these challenges and focus on practical steps that the Council can take, alongside partners, to protect and improve air quality across West Oxfordshire. It will build on the progress already made, while looking at the specific needs of local communities and the challenges they may face as the district grows. 

The Council will continue monitoring air quality in Witney and Chipping Norton, alongside other locations across West Oxfordshire, to make sure improvements are maintained. 

The Council will work with partners and seek residents' views through a public consultation as the new strategy is developed. Once the strategy has been adopted, the Council will formally remove the air quality management areas in Witney and Chipping Norton. 

The work supports the Council's wider commitment to creating a healthier, greener West Oxfordshire, where clean air and a good environment help residents enjoy a better quality of life.