Air quality

The protection and improvement of the environment is a key priority for the Council and our partners.

1. We carry out air quality monitoring

We monitor levels of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide in South Tyneside.

We regularly check that they do not exceed national and EU air quality limits and targets.

If we feel that this may happen, we may create Air Quality Management Areas. We've done this in two areas successfully already.

2. We enforce air quality laws

We are responsible for making sure that laws to tackle air pollution are followed.

Most of South Tyneside is designated as a smoke control area, which means you can only burn authorised fuel, unless you use an 'exempt appliance'. 

You must also make sure that you:

• limit how much smoke you release from a chimney
• be considerate to others if you're having a bonfire or burning waste

An environmental permit is required if you operate a business which carries out activities such as:

• burning fuels
• storing chemicals in bulk
• manufacturing certain materials
• incinerating or recovering waste

Substantial fines can be given if you do not comply.

3. We ensure new developments consider air quality

An air quality assessment is required for certain new developments if they meet the air quality criteria under the Tyneside Validation Requirements.

If the assessment indicates that the development would have a detrimental effect on air quality, then appropriate mitigation measures will be discussed with the developer.

4. We develop traffic projects aimed at reducing congestion

Recent projects have included:

• Lindisfarne and John Reid Road roundabouts (A194)
• Arches junction improvements (A185 / A194)

5. We promote sustainable travel

Electric car charging points

Electric vehicle charging points are available across South Tyneside, see electric car charging points.

Online journey planning

You can easily plan a journey in the area by foot, bicycle or public transport by using Traveline North East: Plan a journey.

Public transport

Discounted and multimodal tickets are often available for everyday journeys. You can contact individual operators for more information, or tickets are available for across Tyne and Wear from Nexus. 

Cycling

There is a great network of cycling routes and cycle parking across South Tyneside. For more details see cycling in South Tyneside.

For more information, view our Local Air Quality Strategy and Action Plan.