Air Quality
Councils are currently addressing air quality through vehicle emission controls, active travel schemes, and smoke control measures.
In September 2026, Barking and Dagenham councillors scrutinised the methodology for measuring air quality improvements from a proposed Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) expansion, questioning if permit data alone proves pollution reduction. Kingston upon Thames Council also began a trial school street scheme to improve air quality, and Greenwich Council backed active travel vouchers for children.
Lewisham Council approved a £107 million contract for electric vehicle charging points in September 2026 and is establishing a borough-wide smoke control area, including for moored vessels. Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026, citing air quality concerns.
Tower Hamlets Council approved revised parking fees in July 2026, with increases for higher-emission vehicles. In July 2026, Havering Council called for greater transparency and reinvestment of Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) revenue. Upcoming meetings in October 2026 for Croydon, Hackney, Westminster, Lambeth, and Hillingdon are scheduled to discuss this topic.
Key facts
- Barking and Dagenham councillors questioned the methodology for measuring air quality improvements from a proposed CPZ expansion in September 2026. Source
- Kingston upon Thames Council began a trial school street scheme in September 2026 to improve air quality around Robin Hood Primary School. Source
- Lewisham Council approved a £107 million contract for electric vehicle charging points in September 2026. Source
- Lewisham Council approved starting the process to establish a borough-wide smoke control area in September 2026. Source
- Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026, citing air quality concerns. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
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 8 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.