Background
Bonjomon Ltd sought planning permission from the London Borough of Brent (LBB) to extend and convert an existing two-storey dwelling at 101 Anson Road into five self-contained flats with associated parking. The site lies within the Brent Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) for nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter (PM₁₀) and is approximately 250 metres from the nearest main road (A407 Walm Lane).
LBB requested an Air Quality Assessment (AQA) to confirm that future residents would not be exposed to poor air quality, that the proposal would be Air Quality Neutral, and that dust emissions during construction would be properly managed.
What we did
Baseline Review and Policy Context
We reviewed:
- Local monitoring data (Neasden Lane, Ark Franklin Primary, and John Keble Primary CMS);
- Diffusion tube results within 1 km of the site;
- Modelled data from the London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (LAEI 2019) for 2025.
Findings showed that NO₂, PM₁₀, and PM₂.₅ concentrations were well below air quality objectives (AQOs) across the site.
Development Review
The scheme included:
- Conversion and extension to five flats across three storeys;
- Two on-site parking spaces (no net increase);
- Heating and hot water supplied by air source heat pumps (ASHP) or all-electric systems.
The project therefore introduced no new combustion sources and no increase in vehicle trip generation beyond existing conditions.
Dust and Construction Risk Assessment
A full IAQM dust risk assessment was undertaken covering demolition, earthworks, construction, and trackout. All phases were classed as “Small” emission magnitude, with surrounding residential receptors identified as high sensitivity. Overall, the risk was assessed as Medium for demolition and Low for all other phases, reducing to Not Significant with mitigation.
Mitigation measures included:
- Daily inspections and community engagement plan;
- Water suppression and covered skips;
- No on-site haul roads or heavy-duty vehicle activity;
- Compliance with GLA Dust and Emissions SPG and IAQM 2024 guidance
Air Quality Neutral Assessment
The scheme met London Plan Policy SI1 and Brent Policy BSU12 requirements:
- Building Emissions: None – fully electric energy strategy (ASHP);
- Transport Emissions: Two spaces, within London Plan PTAL 4 maximum standards.
It was therefore classified as Air Quality Neutral for both building and transport emissions.
Why It Matters
Urban infill developments across London increasingly fall within AQMAs, demanding clear evidence of compliance with tightening emission standards. This project demonstrates how measurement-led assessment and proportionate risk control can enable small residential schemes to progress smoothly while aligning with Air Quality Neutral policy requirements.
By combining robust baseline analysis, practical dust mitigation, and zero-emission design, we ensured a planning submission fully aligned with London Plan SI1 and Brent Local Plan BSU12, supporting sustainable urban growth with cleaner air.
Project Progress
Brent Council granted planning permission on 8th July 2025.
