Maidstone Acts to Tackle Air Pollution with New Air Quality Plan

One of the top priorities of the new Liberal Democrat and Green/Independent Alliance Administration at Maidstone Borough Council is to tackle air pollution head-on—starting with the development of a new Air Quality Management Plan for the borough.

Building on the valuable work previously undertaken in the Stone Street area, led by Councillor Brian Clark, the new administration has allocated £25,000 to begin the necessary research and planning. This joint cabinet initiative is being supported by High Street Councillor and Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and Enforcement, Clive English.

Councillor English said:
“This funding will enable us to carry out detailed assessments to identify the worst-affected areas, understand the root causes of poor air quality, and evaluate the most effective solutions. The evidence we gather will also strengthen our case when bidding for additional funding from central government.”

Improving air quality is about more than numbers and data—it’s about the health and wellbeing of Maidstone’s residents. Poor air quality is linked to respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and reduced life expectancy. Cleaner air means healthier lives, safer streets, and a more attractive town centre for everyone—from young children walking to school to older residents out shopping or meeting friends.

The decision to invest in a new Air Quality Management Plan marks a sharp change in direction from the previous Conservative administration, which chose not to progress the initiative. The current administration believes that clean air is a basic right and that local government has a duty to act.

Councillor Clark added:
“Clean air shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be something every resident in Maidstone can rely on. This plan is an essential step towards creating a healthier, greener, and fairer borough.”