Air quality
Councils are currently discussing and implementing measures to improve air quality through traffic management, emissions control, and infrastructure development.
In September 2026, Barking and Dagenham Council's proposed Controlled Parking Zone expansion faced scrutiny over the data used to justify air quality improvements, with councillors questioning the methodology. Kingston upon Thames began a trial school street scheme to improve air quality around Robin Hood Primary School. Lewisham Council approved the establishment of a borough-wide smoke control area and a £107 million contract for electric vehicle charging points.
Greenwich Council backed a scheme in September 2026 to provide children with £150 active travel vouchers for bikes or scooters. In August 2026, Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, citing significant concerns over air quality. Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet approved revised parking fees in July 2026, including increases for higher-emission vehicles.
Air quality refers to the condition of the air in terms of its purity or pollution. Councils continue to discuss and decide on measures affecting air quality, with upcoming meetings in October 2026, including Hackney's Cabinet and Havering's Strategic Planning Committee, where related issues may be addressed.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council approved a £107 million contract for electric vehicle charging points in September 2026. Source
- Lewisham Council approved the establishment of a borough-wide smoke control area in September 2026. Source
- Kingston upon Thames began a trial school street scheme to improve air quality around Robin Hood Primary School in September 2026. Source
- Greenwich Council backed a scheme to provide children with £150 active travel vouchers 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.