Decision details

9.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report presenting for approval a new Clean Air strategy for Sheffield, setting out how the Council and its partners intend to improve air quality in the City.

9.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-

(a)

approves the Clean Air Strategy attached to the report as a statement of the Council’s strategic approach to air quality; and

(b)

notes that the implementation of any of the proposed actions may be subject to further decision making in accordance with the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation.

9.3

Reasons for Decision

9.3.1

Across the UK, air pollution is a public health emergency. It has been linked to strokes, heart attacks, cancer, asthma and dementia. Research shows that children exposed to air pollution have smaller lungs and negative health effects for their whole life. It is estimated that there are 500 early deaths a year in Sheffield linked to air pollution. This Clean Air Strategy sets out an approach to the problem which will tackle the sources of air pollution quickly and will help people to choose public transport and active travel, making Sheffield a healthy thriving city with clean air for everyone.

9.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

9.4.1

The do-nothing option: based on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ (Defra) analysis, even if technological improvements lead to acceptable air quality levels by 2025 (the earliest possible point according to Defra), that could have led to 4000 early deaths in Sheffield in addition to a significant cost to the city’s economy over the next four years. Further, a rapid take-up of electric and better petrol cars by that point which might improve the air quality situation will still not address the congestion and obesity challenges which are likely to have become worse without appropriate intervention. Therefore the do-nothing option is not a feasible option, either legally (in terms of becoming compliant with statutory limits) or in terms of realising health and economic benefits for Sheffielders.

9.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

9.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

9.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Laraine Manley, Executive Director, Place.

9.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing