The public are being asked for their views on the next steps for environmental measures which helped bring about a significant improvement in Musselburgh’s air quality.
An Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) order was introduced in the town centre in 2013 due to the levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exceeding national targets.
This led to the creation of an Air Quality Action Plan which has contributed to a reduction in air pollution. No readings above air quality targets for NO2 – commonly emitted by vehicle exhausts – have been recorded in Musselburgh since 2016.
As a result, East Lothian Council is seeking to revoke the AQMA and a public consultation was launched today (Monday, 20 October) asking for feedback on the move.
The order covers Musselburgh’s High Street from its junction with Newbigging and extending westwards to the junction with Bridge Street and Mall Avenue.
Revocation of the AQMA will not impact the frequency of air quality monitoring and reporting for the area.
Improving health and well-being
Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “Although NO2 levels in the area were already on a downward trend due to actions taken by the council, in 2017 we made further efforts to reduce road traffic related pollution in Musselburgh through our Air Quality Action Plan.
“The 13 measures outlined in the plan included reducing the impact of air pollution from buses on the High Street, encouraging active travel, and adopting the ECO Stars scheme which supports HGV, van, bus, and coach operators to run their fleets more efficiently.
“The council remains committed to improving health and well-being by reducing emissions and improving air quality.”
East Lothian Council has a statutory obligation to monitor air quality and take corrective action where pollutant concentrations are above permitted objective levels.
In 2022 a detailed assessment of air quality in Musselburgh was carried out by independent consultants. They concluded the council may wish to consider revocation of the AQMA.
The proposed Musselburgh Revocation Report can be viewed on the council’s website at https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/downloads/download/12755/air_quality_management_area_order
The consultation will run until Friday, 14 November. Residents can respond to the consultation questions by emailing envprot@eastlothian.gov.uk, or by post to East Lothian Council, Environmental Protection, c/o John Muir House, Brewery Park, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3HA.