Background
Fernham Homes were granted planning consent to develop 26 residential dwellings at Salts Farm, Longfield. To comply with a planning condition set by Sevenoaks District Council, we were commissioned to conduct an Emissions Mitigation Assessment (EMA). This assessment aimed to evaluate and mitigate the potential air quality impacts.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the EMA were to:
- Assess the potential emissions from the development.
- Propose mitigation measures to minimize air quality impacts.
- Ensure compliance with local air quality policies and guidelines.
Key Findings
- Air Quality Impact: The site is not within an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). Baseline measurements indicated concentrations of NO2 and PM10 that effect human health were well within the national objectives.
- Traffic Emissions: The development was projected to generate 126 vehicle trips per day. Emissions from these trips were calculated for nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM2.5) and mitigation measures proposed to meet the calculated 5-year emissions damage costs.
- Heating Emissions: The development would use ultra-low NOx gas boilers, which are considered to have minimal impact on air quality.
Mitigation Measures
To address the potential air quality impacts, several mitigation measures were proposed:
- Electric Vehicle Charging: Each dwelling would be equipped with an electric vehicle charging point to encourage the use of low-emission vehicles.
- Low NOx Boilers: Installation of boilers with NOx emissions below 40 mg/kWh.
- Travel Plan: Implementation of a travel plan to promote sustainable transport options such as cycling, walking, and public transport.
- Green Infrastructure: Use of trees and other vegetation to absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
Construction Phase Mitigation
During the construction phase, specific measures were recommended to control dust and emissions:
- Dust Management Plan: Development of a comprehensive plan to monitor and control dust emissions.
- Site Layout: Strategic placement of machinery and dust-generating activities away from sensitive receptors.
- Vehicle Management: Ensuring all vehicles switch off engines when stationary and imposing speed limits on site.
Conclusion
The Emissions Mitigation Assessment concluded that with the proposed mitigation measures, the development at Salts Farm would comply with local air quality policies and with the mitigation measures applied would significantly minimize its impact on the environment.
Project Progress
The discharge of the planning condition was granted in June 2023 by Sevenoaks District Council.
