Air Quality in Maldon
We have a duty to monitor and report on air quality in Maldon - both the UK and the EU have set limits for the maximum allowed levels of different air pollutants.
The latest annual status report shows that air quality in Maldon for particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) is within the permitted levels.
However, levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) need to be reduced on Market Hill.
This is why Market Hill is a designated Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). It means we have a duty to take action to bring the air quality under the limits.
Our Air Quality Action Plan 2020-2025 sets out what we are doing in Maldon to help reduce air pollution.
As the main source of nitrogen dioxide is vehicle emissions, we have identified a variety of actions to reduce this form of air pollution. This includes designating Market Hill as a Clean Air Route.
We are also encouraging people to walk and cycle more. Further information is available at steps you can take to reduce emissions and increase active travel.
Past annual status reports that set out Maldon’s air quality data are available here:
- 2024 Annual Status Report
- 2023 Annual Status Report
- 2022 Annual Status Report
- 2021 Annual Status Report
- 2020 Annual Status Report
- 2019 Annual Status Report
- 2018 Annual Status Report
Essex Air Quality Consortium
Air pollution does not respect geographical boundaries, so working together across Essex is vitally important in tackling the issue. That is why we are part of the Essex Air Quality Consortium.
This is formed of the 12 district, borough, and city councils in Essex, as well as Essex County Council as the highway authority and the two unitary authorities in Greater Essex - Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council. The Environment Agency, London Stansted Airport and the University of Essex are also members.
We are working together to make changes across the county that will help to make the air we breathe cleaner and healthier.