1. Introduction

1.1 The quality of the air we breathe can have an effect on human health and quality of life. It can also impact upon local ecosystems and the area's micro-climate.

1.2 The Council has to weigh up economic, social and environmental factors when deciding whether to grant or refuse planning permission and if conditions are required.

1.3 The determination of planning proposals must be made in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Air quality is a material consideration that planners must take into account when making plans and when taking planning decisions.

1.4 This Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) explains how development plan policies are to be applied in respect of air quality. It sets out an approach to air quality impact assessment of development schemes including:

• the type of air quality assessment required to assess the impact of development on local air quality in terms of human health and ecological receptors. Links are provided to further guidance and access to air quality data and information.
• how to manage and where possible reduce or mitigate activities that unacceptably impact on air quality.

1.5 The SPD covers proposed developments within the New Forest District (outside the National Park) Local Plan Area, shown in the figure below, however the area covered by the relevant assessment may extend beyond the New Forest District local plan area.

Figure 1: The Plan Area