Recent readings from two air testing tubes positioned along Grane Road have indicated that air quality levels remain slightly above national air quality targets, as highlighted in a recent report prepared for the cabinet of Rossendale Council. These findings underline the ongoing battle against pollution in the area, which is primarily attributed to traffic emissions. In compliance with legal requirements, the borough is obligated to generate an annual air quality report that thoroughly assesses local conditions.
The report identifies traffic emissions as the main source of such pollution. However, it also acknowledges that other factors contribute to the declining air quality, such as garden bonfires, the burning of materials at commercial sites, and emissions from household chimneys. While these activities are often carried out in the name of convenience or tradition, their cumulative impact poses a significant threat to respiratory health and overall air quality.
One of the primary concerns concerning air quality in Rossendale is the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a pollutant predominantly caused by road traffic vehicles. The report makes clear that, despite recent improvements in air quality across the borough, there are still locations where pollution levels exceed the national objectives. Consequently, if specific areas are identified with pollution levels surpassing these limits, councils are legally required to declare those areas as air quality management areas (AQMAs) and devise plans aimed at improving air quality.
Interestingly, the report also reveals an overall trend toward improvement in air quality in Rossendale. Notably, two AQMAs at different locations within the borough were officially ended in 2022, which presents a positive development for local residents concerned about air pollution. The Grane Road AQMA, specifically, has consistently shown signs of improvement, with a downward trajectory in pollution levels that bodes well for future assessments. An action plan is currently being finalized, aimed at further reducing air pollution in the area and sustaining the improvements already observed.
In analyzing air quality data, the report focuses on readings of particulate matter, which are small particles that can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream, leading to various health issues. These particulates are measured in micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³). The national standard for acceptable particulate levels is set at 40 µg/m³ or lower. Strikingly, the monitoring station at 250 Grane Road recorded particulate levels of 41.6 µg/m³, while another at 256-258 Grane Road reported 40.7 µg/m³. Although both readings exceed the national limit, they indicate a downward trend when compared to previous readings, which were nearly as high as 50.4 µg/m³ in the past.
The implications of air pollution extend far beyond the immediate environment, as the report notes that it is linked to several adverse health effects. Widespread studies have shown that air pollution contributes significantly to the development of chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. The most vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting heart and lung conditions, are disproportionately affected by the harmful effects of poor air quality. Additionally, it has been observed that areas with subpar air quality often coincide with lower socioeconomic status, creating a cycle of disadvantage that is difficult to break.
The financial toll of health issues associated with air pollution is staggering, with estimates suggesting that it costs the National Health Service (NHS) and social care systems over £150 million annually. Alarmingly, it has been found that approximately 80 percent of a person’s health outcomes can be determined by factors such as their lifestyle choices, environmental conditions, and community circumstances, rather than solely relying on medical intervention. This statistic underscores the crucial importance of addressing air quality issues at a community level and crafting strategic plans that focus on both prevention and remediation efforts.
The Haslingden AQMA encompasses a specific stretch of road that includes 13 homes situated between Gas Street and Holden Place, numbered 240 to 268 Grane Road. Residents living in this area have been acutely aware of the air quality concerns, as many grapple with the direct impact of pollution on their health and well-being. The report outlines several actions taken by the council to mitigate the effects of air pollution, including public awareness campaigns aimed at educating the community about the dangers posed by smoke from open fires. Over the past year, the council has investigated around 60 reported cases related to smoky household chimneys and the burning of materials in domestic and commercial sectors.
To promote healthier practices, the council has also been proactive in advising residents on the appropriate use of smokeless fuels for stoves. It is worth noting that Rossendale is designated as a smoke control area, with the exception of a few rural homes on the outskirts. This designation presents a framework under which the council can enforce stricter regulations regarding emissions from household activities, ultimately leading to improved air quality.
Encouragingly, the report indicates that no significant alterations to road layouts or major highways projects are required in Haslingden to bring air quality levels within acceptable limits. The ongoing development and acceleration of electric vehicles, along with initiatives promoting walking and cycling, are points of optimism highlighted in the report. Such efforts signal a growing awareness that lifestyle changes and transition to greener technologies are essential in combating air pollution.
In recognition of these improvements, the number of diffusion tubes used to measure air quality across Rossendale will be reduced, as the majority of the borough consistently exhibits NO2 levels well below the established air quality objectives. This streamlined approach to monitoring reflects both an acknowledgment of positive trends and a commitment to allocate resources more effectively.
However, while there are numerous initiatives underway to promote a cleaner environment and raise awareness about air quality issues, the report does bring to light a noteworthy gap: the apparent absence of a dedicated local air quality action group. The Clean Air Parents Network and the Rossendale Climate Network are mentioned as organizations that bring together individuals, schools, and local businesses interested in making practical changes. Yet, the absence of a focused, grassroots air quality action group could be an obstacle in mobilizing community efforts around this important issue.
In comparison, other regions demonstrate how youth activism can effectively raise awareness about air pollution. For instance, in London, a group of teenagers has formed the Choked-Up campaign, aimed at shedding light on air quality problems affecting urban areas. Similarly, the national Living Streets charity works to advocate for making walking a viable and attractive option for everyday local journeys, ultimately promoting healthier lifestyles and cleaner air.
The complexities surrounding air pollution highlight the importance of sustained efforts at both the local and national levels to address these issues effectively. As the data presented by the Rossendale Council serves as a reminder of the markers of air quality that remain outside of acceptable levels, there is a pressing obligation not only to secure ongoing improvements but also to build awareness and support for initiatives that can lead to meaningful changes.
Effective communication remains critical in engaging stakeholders—residents, local officials, health professionals, and environmental advocates—about the threats posed by air pollution. By fostering a culture of collaboration among these groups, it becomes possible to develop actionable strategies that prioritize the improvement of air quality in Rossendale.
As Rossendale addresses these ongoing challenges, a concerted focus on the intersection of environmental health, community well-being, and responsive governance will be vital. The road toward better air quality may still be long, but recent trends indicate a positive movement toward improvement. With community involvement, innovative policy approaches, and a firm commitment to raising public awareness, it is possible to create lasting change that protects current residents and creates a healthier environment for generations to come.
For now, the community of Haslingden and the surrounding areas are left hopeful that the council’s actions and the local populations’ ingenuity will lead to further refinements in air quality that lower pollution levels below the national objectives. Ultimately, it’s about more than just numbers—it’s about the health, safety, and quality of life for everyone who calls this vibrant locale home. The battle against air pollution may be ongoing, but the resolve of residents and local authorities to address this issue ensures that their collective voice will continue to advocate for cleaner air.