For many UK developers, securing planning permission can be a frustrating process filled with unexpected hurdles. One commonly overlooked requirement that can hold up progress is the Air Quality Assessment. If requested late or submitted without the correct detail, it can lead to rejections, further information requests, or drawn-out revisions.
Understanding the role of an air quality assessment — and acting early — can keep your project moving on schedule.
What Is an Air Quality Assessment?
An air quality assessment evaluates the impact a proposed development may have on local air pollution levels or how existing pollution may affect future users of a site. It is often required for developments located within or near Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs), or for those that could generate increased vehicle traffic or dust.
These assessments help local authorities ensure new developments align with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Local Plan policies on environmental protection.
When Are Air Quality Assessments Required?
An air quality assessment is likely to be needed if your project:
• Is located near a busy road or motorway
• Falls within or adjacent to an AQMA
• Includes 10+ residential units or generates significant traffic
• Involves demolition or construction that may release dust
• Requires environmental input flagged by the planning department
Planning officers, particularly Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), may request the report early in the process — or later if concerns are raised. Delays often occur when the requirement is missed during pre-application discussions.
Why Delays Happen Without an Air Quality Assessment
- Validation Issues
Local authorities may refuse to validate your application if it lacks a required air quality report — meaning it won’t be processed until the document is submitted. - Objections from Environmental Health
Without a robust assessment, the Environmental Health team may object or request further information, potentially leading to refusal or deferral at planning committee stage. - Late Identification of Mitigation Measures
Where mitigation (e.g. green infrastructure, improved ventilation, or layout changes) is needed, discovering this too late in the process can trigger redesigns or re-submissions. - Increased Scrutiny in AQMA Zones
Developments in AQMAs face extra scrutiny. A clear, defensible air quality assessment helps demonstrate that you’ve considered local conditions and proposed appropriate measures.
How Hawkins Environmental Can Help
At Hawkins Environmental, we specialise in providing planning-focused air quality assessments that meet local and national requirements. We understand what planning officers want to see and tailor every report accordingly.
Our assessments include:
• A desk-based review of baseline air quality data
• Modelled traffic emissions using DEFRA and LAQM tools
• Identification of relevant exposure risks and receptors
• Analysis in line with IAQM and EPUK guidance
• Practical mitigation advice where needed
• A clear executive summary designed for planners
Most importantly, we deliver on time — so you can avoid delays and meet planning deadlines.
Who Needs an Air Quality Assessment?
You should consider an air quality assessment if:
• Your project is near a major road, junction, or industrial area
• The site is within or close to an AQMA
• Your proposed development increases traffic flows
• You’re advised by a planning consultant or pre-app response
• You want to pre-empt objections and submit a robust application
Why Act Early?
Commissioning an air quality assessment at the pre-application stage — or early in the application process — gives your team time to understand constraints and adapt the design if necessary.
Waiting until validation or committee stage increases the risk of last-minute problems, additional consultant fees, and missed project timelines.
Our Commitment to Developers
We work closely with architects, planning consultants, and developers to deliver:
• Fast turnaround – Reports typically completed in 5–7 working days
• Fixed pricing – Transparent costs with no surprises
• Friendly, expert advice – Direct access to consultants
• Planning confidence – Reports aligned to local policy
A well-prepared Air Quality Assessment is more than a formality — it’s a vital part of the planning toolkit that saves time, avoids objections, and supports smooth approvals.
Need help with your project? Speak to an expert at Hawkins Environmental today.
Contact Hawkins Environmental
• Phone: 01256 522332
• Email: enquiry@hawkinsenvironmental.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does an air quality assessment take to complete?
A1: Most desktop assessments are completed within 5–7 working days. More complex sites may take slightly longer, especially if additional data or modelling is required.
Q2: Is on-site monitoring required for air quality assessments?
A2: Not usually. For planning purposes, most assessments are desktop-based using DEFRA data, traffic modelling, and local monitoring station information. Monitoring is typically only needed in very specific cases and takes 3–6 months.
Q3: Will an air quality assessment guarantee planning approval?
A3: While no consultant can guarantee approval, a professionally prepared air quality assessment significantly improves your chances by addressing environmental health concerns early and thoroughly.