Air Quality
We have a duty to undertake a full review and assessment of air quality within the District in accordance with the Environment Act 1995.
The main aim is to ensure a level of ambient air quality in public places which poses no significant risk to health or quality of life.
What are the Council doing about air quality?
We have a legal obligation to assess air quality across the district against health based standards. Several pollutants are assessed.
Where the levels of pollution are found to be above the levels set by the government we are required to designate an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). We must then produce an Air Quality Action Plan which will identify measures to improve local air quality.
We also regulate certain industrial processes. These processes have to apply to us for a Permit. A Permit will specify operating conditions and emission limits which the operator must comply with in order to prevent or minimise pollution from the process. All these processes are subject to regular inspection.
Does the Council monitor air pollution?
We currently have one continuous monitoring station which is monitoring background levels of one pollutant, nitrogen dioxide.We also have a network of diffusion tubes located throughout the district. These measure nitrogen dioxide on a monthly basis.
Where can I find out further information?
You can find further details of our review and assessment of air quality within the district on our website
What can the Council do about garden bonfires?
Wherever possible green waste from the garden should be composted or recycled (please see the Street Scene booklet). However, occasionally a bonfire is the best practicable way to dispose of woody or diseased waste that cannot be composted.
If bonfires are a persistent problem and are interfering substantially with neighbours’ well-being, comfort or enjoyment of their property a complaint can be made to us.
We will investigate the complaint and can take action under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 if a statutory nuisance is being caused. You can get more information from our bonfire leaflet, available from our Contact Centres.
I understand BolsoverDistrict is a smoke control area, but I want a log burning stove. Can I have one?
It depends whether your burner is suitable for a smoke control area. More information can be obtained from
If you don’t have access to the internet one of our officers will be able to provide you with this information and help you find out whether your burner is suitable.
What if I have a complaint or I am not happy about the quality of air in my area?
You can telephone our Contact Centres on 01246 242424 to report any complaint. One of our officers will then contact you to discuss your concerns and offer advice on how this can be dealt with.
Our standards are
- To provide helpful advice and information when sought.
- To contact you within 5 working days regarding your concern.
January 2015