In today’s planning landscape, the importance of air quality cannot be overstated — especially for construction-led developments. Local authorities are increasingly enforcing stricter environmental standards, and an air quality assessment for planning has become a common requirement to gain approval.
If you’re a developer, planner or contractor, understanding the role of a construction air quality assessment and how to meet planning conditions effectively is key to keeping your project on schedule and compliant.
Why Are Air Quality Assessments Needed for Construction Projects?
Construction sites contribute to short-term increases in pollution through dust, emissions from machinery, and increased vehicle traffic. When located near schools, homes or in Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs), these emissions can pose risks to public health and violate local policy.
An air quality assessment for planning identifies these risks, assesses their impact, and outlines mitigation strategies to minimise harm. It’s often required as part of an Environmental Statement or as a standalone document during the planning application process.
What’s Included in an Air Quality Assessment for Planning?
A professional air quality assessment typically covers both the construction and operational phases of a development. At Hawkins Environmental, our reports are tailored to meet the expectations of planning officers and Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), ensuring a smooth planning journey.
Key components include:
- Baseline Air Quality Data: Existing pollutant levels at the site
- Impact Analysis: Predicted changes in pollutant levels due to the proposed development
- Dust Risk Assessment: Specific to construction phase activities
- Mitigation Measures: Practical steps to reduce emissions and dust
- Compliance Checks: Alignment with local and national planning policies
In many cases, this assessment is referred to as an air quality impact assessment, especially for major projects or those near AQMAs.
When Is an Air Quality Assessment For Planning Required?
The question “when is an air quality assessment required?” is common among developers. Typically, you’ll need one if your project:
- Is located in or near an AQMA
- Will generate significant traffic or emissions
- Involves large-scale construction or demolition
- Is near sensitive receptors (e.g. schools, hospitals, care homes)
If you’re unsure, our air quality assessment consultants can help assess your site and planning conditions.
Meeting Planning Conditions with Confidence
Planning authorities often attach conditions requiring an approved air quality assessment for planning before construction can begin. Here’s how to ensure your project is compliant:
Engage an Expert Consultant Early
Working with a qualified air quality assessment consultant ensures your report meets technical and regulatory standards. Hawkins Environmental has extensive experience in air quality assessments for planning applications across the South of England.
Prepare a Detailed Dust and Construction Emissions Plan
For developments with significant earthworks or demolition, a construction air quality assessment includes a dust risk assessment and outlines control measures such as:
- Dust suppression systems
- Wheel washing facilities
- On-site speed restrictions
- Covered skips and stockpiles
Demonstrate Policy Compliance
Our assessments are written with local and national policy frameworks in mind, including:
- National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
- Local Air Quality Action Plans
- IAQM (Institute of Air Quality Management) guidance
Why Choose Hawkins Environmental?
As experienced air quality assessment consultants, we work closely with developers to deliver reliable, planning-ready assessments. Our services help you:
- Avoid unnecessary delays or planning objections
- Address local authority concerns
- Implement effective mitigation measures
- Support your commitment to sustainable development
Explore our Air Quality Assessment Services
A comprehensive air quality assessment for planning is more than a box-ticking exercise — it’s a fundamental tool for protecting public health, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering responsible construction projects.
At Hawkins Environmental, we provide trusted guidance and technical expertise to help your development proceed with confidence.
Phone: 01256 522332
Email: enquiry@hawkinsenvironmental.co.uk
Visit our Air Quality Assessment Services Page
Air Quality Assessment for Planning FAQs
Q1: Can I apply for planning without an air quality assessment?
A1: You can, but your application may not be validated or could face delays if an assessment is later requested by the local authority.
Q2: How long does it take to complete an air quality assessment for planning?
A2: Most assessments take 5–10 working days, depending on the site and scale of development. Early instruction helps avoid delays.
Q3: Does a construction project always need a dust assessment too?
A3: Not always, but if your site involves demolition or earthworks near sensitive locations, a dust risk assessment is usually required.