Air quality areas are revoked

Cheshire East Council has revoked seven air quality management areas – including Middlewich Road, in Sandbach – as a result of falling pollution levels.

The air quality management areas were introduced in response to raised pollutant levels within small “hotspots” across the borough and to help provide a focus for air quality improvement measures.

As a result of the improved picture, the council will now review its air quality action plan and is inviting comments from local residents.

The data that influenced this decision was obtained over several years going back to 2015. Improved vehicle technology and new and improved highways schemes have most likely contributed to cleaner air, said Cheshire East Council.

The areas revoked are: A50 Manchester Road, Knutsford; former A556 Chester Road, Mere (now B5569); Earle Street, Crewe; Wistaston Road, Crewe; Nantwich Road, Crewe; and Park Lane, Macclesfield.

Coun Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for communities, said: “Tackling air pollution is a key priority for this council due to the potential impact on the health of our residents and visitors.”