§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how he intends to set local targets for(a) improving air quality, (b) improving road safety, (c) improving public transport and (d) road traffic reductions. [59497]
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§ Ms Glenda JacksonWith regard to(a), the Air Quality Regulations 1997 set air quality objectives for seven pollutants, to be achieved by 2005. Authorities are required to review and assess air quality to determine whether these objectives are likely to be met. Where it appears that these objectives are unlikely to be achieved, the authority must declare an air quality management area.
In general, it will be for local authorities to set targets on the basis of national targets (where these exist) and advice from the Department. Local transport plans will need to include an appropriate set of targets and indicators for measuring the extent to which plan objectives are being met. The Department is today issuing draft guidance for local authorities on local transport plans. This advises on the use of targets, including those relating to relevant statutory provisions.