Within the plan making process the following considerations with regards to air quality are suggested:

• Consideration of Likely Existing Sources of Pollution. The main source of pollution within the majority of areas is from road traffic. Areas with large industrial areas will also need to consider emissions from industry.  Where possible the siting / plan making process should consider the separation of proposed sensitive uses from likely sources of air pollution and areas with known existing air quality issues such as Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs).
• Consideration of nearby sensitive areas: The main emissions from most developments is emissions from road traffic generated by the development. It is important to consider the likely routes of traffic generated by the introduction of a new development. Will these affect already congested roads and/or impact on Air Quality Management Areas?  Will they impact roads close to sensitive ecological habitats?
• Consideration of the potential for a development to incorporate mitigation for existing air quality issues: Is there an opportunity to alleviate existing air quality problem areas with the introduction of a link road or bypass scheme in conjunction with a development.