A congestion charge could be introduced to Exeter

A public consultation is set to be launched on ways to improve air quality and cut congestion in Exeter.

The Draft Exeter City Council Air Quality Action Plan contains a wide range of proposals to reduce exposure to air pollution and improve health and quality of life. It aims to discourage private car use and increase use of public transport, cycling and walking. Businesses will be supported in changing travel habits and reducing emissions.

Cllr Rosie Denham, lead councillor for City Transformation, Energy and Transport, said: “Congestion, and the resulting impact on air quality, is a result of a thriving city but if you don’t resolve the problem it severely impacts on our ability to grow and is detrimental to health and quality of life.

“That is why we are committed to becoming congestion-free by 2025, and why we want to consult on plans to improve air quality in the city. We want as many people as possible to engage with this consultation, and want residents to give us their own ideas on reducing congestion and pollution for everyone who lives, works and visits the city.”

The report states that between 2011 and 2016, the period when the last action plan was in place, nitrogen dioxide concentrations have generally reduced or remained stable in the city. It states that while air quality in Exeter is mainly good, there are a small number of hotspots where levels of nitrogen dioxide are above government objectives, due to volumes of traffic. These include Honiton Road and Alphington Street.

Councillors will be asked to approve a three month consultation on the action plan.