Decision details

The Cabinet was invited to:

Ø  Receive an update on the proposed action to deliver the Ministerial Direction requiring Solihull Council to implement measures on the two sections of the A45 previously identified by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as potentially exceeding roadside nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentration limits as set out in the national air quality objectives;

Ø  Receive  an update on the request for funding to ‘The Joint Air Quality Unit’ (a joint unit between DEFRA and the Department for Transport), to deliver the Ministerial Direction; and

Ø  To accept the proposed £824,373 funding from DEFRA to deliver the Ministerial Direction over the next 2 years.

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Housing in presenting the report to Members advised them of what action was being proposed to ensure compliance with the Ministerial Direction in relation to two sections of the A45 potentially exceeding roadside nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentration limits as set out in the national air quality objectives.

Solihull’s package of measures, which had been accepted by DEFRA  included workplace travel plans, use of cycling and walking networks, car sharing schemes and changes to signing and fleet. Regular monitoring reports would be presented and two full time staff would deliver the air quality initiatives.

Members were also reminded that this work was separate to the development and delivery of the Solihull Clean Air Strategy 2019-2024, which was currently being developed, but it was recognised that there was some overlap, and Officers would seek to realise mutual benefits wherever possible.

Members welcomed the report sought clarification as to what was meant by travel support grants. Members were advised this referred to types of infrastructure such as electrical charging points.

RESOLVED:
(i) That the measures to deliver the Ministerial Direction requiring Solihull

Council to take steps to implement these measures as soon as possible and at the latest by 2020 be approved;

(ii) That the request to the Joint Air Quality Unit for revenue grant funding of £824,373to enable delivery of the proposed measures within the required timeframe be approved; and

(iii) That delegated authority for ensuring the delivery of the Ministerial Direction within the required timeframe be granted  to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Housing.