Since 1997 the government has required local councils to review and assess air quality in their area with reference to the pollutants specified in the National Air Quality Strategy. The council declared the borough an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in 2003 as the review and assessment process showed that air quality in the borough was not likely to meet the National Air Quality Objectives by the target dates.
Emissions from road traffic have been identified as the major source of pollution in the borough. Air quality in the borough is also affected by pollution generated in neighbouring authorities and across London. The south east of England is also affected by air pollution, particularly fine particles originating in continental Europe.
Annual status reports
- Annual Status Report 2024
- Annual Status Report 2023
- Annual Status Report 2022
- Annual Status Report 2021
- Annual Status Report 2020
- Annual Status Report 2019
- Annual Status Report 2018
- Annual Status Report 2017
- Annual Status Report 2016
- Annual Status Report 2015
Updating and screening assessments
- Updating and Screening Assessment 2012 report on air quality in Merton
- Updating and Screening Assessment 2009 report on air quality in Merton
For review and assessment reports prior to 2009 please contact ehealth@merton.gov.uk.
Action plan
Local councils who have declared themselves an AQMA are required to produce an Air Quality Action Plan to outline the measures the authority intends to take in pursuit of the National Air Quality objectives in its area.
- Air Quality Action Plan 2018 - 2023
- Air Quality Action Plan Progress Report 2010 - Merton's air quality action plan
- Air Quality Action Plan Progress Report 2014 - draft version only
Related websites
- Air Quality (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) - information regarding local air quality management and details on legislation, regulations, monitoring, research and publications.
- The Love Clean Air website - advice about local air quality and what people can do to help.
Contact us
Environmental Health Section
Merton Council
Merton Civic Centre
London Road
Morden
SM4 5DX
Telephone: 020 8545 3025
Email: ehealth@merton.gov.uk