Air Quality
Councils are implementing new traffic schemes and regulations to improve air quality, while scrutinising existing measures and major infrastructure projects.
Hammersmith and Fulham Council is introducing new traffic schemes to reduce out-of-borough cars, aiming to improve air quality, as announced in October 2026. In the same month, Newham Council approved a 24-hour bus lane on Romford Road as part of a wider scheme to enhance air quality and sustainable travel. Croydon Council's Cabinet also approved a new Transport and Parking Strategy in October 2026.
Lewisham Council approved commencing the statutory process to establish a borough-wide smoke control area in September 2026, including regulations for moored vessels. Also in September 2026, Barking and Dagenham Council's Controlled Parking Zone strategy faced scrutiny over its socioeconomic impact and the methodology used for air quality data. Richmond upon Thames Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026, citing air quality concerns.
Kingston upon Thames Council began a trial school street scheme in September 2026 to improve air quality and road safety for pupils. Lewisham Council also approved a £107 million contract for electric vehicle charging points across the borough in September 2026. Haringey Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on 26 October 2026.
Key facts
- Hammersmith and Fulham Council is introducing new traffic schemes to improve air quality, as announced in October 2026. Source
- Newham Council approved a 24-hour bus lane on Romford Road in October 2026, part of a scheme to enhance air quality. Source
- Lewisham Council approved commencing the process to establish a borough-wide smoke control area in September 2026. Source
- Barking and Dagenham Council's CPZ strategy faced scrutiny over air quality data methodology in September 2026. Source
- Richmond upon Thames Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026, citing air quality. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 23 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.