Background
Anderson Acoustics was commissioned by DHA Planning to develop a Transport Emissions Mitigation Strategy (TEMS) for a proposed development at Barge Way, Sittingbourne.
The project aimed to discharge Condition 3 of the planning application 21/504208/FULL, which required measures to reduce transport-related air pollution during both the construction and operational phases of the development.
Project Overview
The development involved creating two open storage facilities with associated access, parking, landscaping, and other works. The site, located in Kemsley, Sittingbourne, was an undeveloped plot of 0.86 hectares. The project included the provision of 16 car parking spaces, 12 cycle parking spaces, and two electric vehicle (EV) charging points.
Key Policy and Guidance
The TEMS was developed in accordance with several key policies and guidance documents, including:
- SBC Air Quality and Planning Guidance
- Kent & Medway Air Quality Partnership Guidance
- Defra Low Emission Strategy Guidance IAQM Guidance on Dust Risk
Baseline Air Pollutant Concentrations
The site was located near two Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) in Sittingbourne. Baseline measurements indicated that NO2 concentrations were below the annual mean objective in recent years.
Development Emissions Details
The development’s transport emissions were calculated using the Emissions Factor Toolkit (EFT). The assessment considered both construction and operational phases, with specific measures to mitigate emissions.
Mitigation Measures
Several mitigation measures were proposed to reduce emissions, including:
- Installation of two 7 kW EV fast chargers
- Provision of secure cycle parking
- Implementation of a dust management plan during construction
- Use of green infrastructure, such as tree planting
Emissions Damage Costs
The emissions damage costs were calculated for both construction and operational phases and the proposed mitigation measures were sufficient to meet these costs.
Conclusion
The TEMS for the Land at Barge Way, Sittingbourne, successfully addressed the requirements of the planning condition and relevant air quality guidance. The proposed mitigation measures ensured that the development would minimize its impact on air quality, promoting sustainable and low-emission transport options.
Project Progress
On 7th January 2025, Swale Borough Council approved the details pursuant to Condition 3 (transport related air pollution).
