Have your say on the future of air quality in Sandy
Thursday, 17 July 2025
We're inviting residents, businesses, and community groups to share their views on the new draft Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) for Sandy.
Your voice matters: have your say on our draft Air Quality Action Plan for Sandy.
Sandy is the only area in Central Bedfordshire where an air quality action plan is required, due to previously elevated nitrogen dioxide levels although these have been consistently below the legal threshold since 2022. No other areas in the district require air quality action plans, as air quality objectives are being met elsewhere.
This updated plan outlines the steps we will take from 2025 to 2030 to reduce air pollution, improve public health, and protect the environment. It replaces the previous plan (2019 to 2024).
Poor air quality, particularly nitrogen dioxide from road traffic, can have serious effects on health especially for children, older adults, and people with heart or lung conditions.
Our draft Air Quality Action Plan for Sandy sets out practical measures to tackle this, including:
- promoting walking, cycling, and public transport
- expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure
- supporting sustainable development through local planning
- integrating air quality actions with transport and freight strategies
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways, said:
We know how important clean air is for people’s health and wellbeing. That’s why this draft Air Quality Plan is important for Sandy. We want your input as your local knowledge of living and working in Sandy is key and can help us make sure the actions we’re taking will have a real impact.
This is your opportunity to help us build a healthier, more sustainable community. Please take a few minutes to review the proposals and have your say.
The consultation runs for four weeks, starting on Wednesday 16 July 2025 and closing on Tuesday 12 august 2025.