Published: Monday, 1st September 2025
Cannock Chase Council is asking for your views on a proposal to remove an air quality management area along the A5 (Watling Street).
Back in 2014, the A5 (Watling Street), between Churchbridge and Brownhills, was declared to be an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA), because of high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This gas, which is part of vehicle emissions, can affect our health – especially those with existing lung conditions. The AQMA means that the Council must find ways to improve air quality until it is at an acceptable level.
Since the AQMA was declared, air quality across Cannock has steadily improved. An independent review in 2021 showed that pollution levels were falling and that this AQMA could be removed if improvements continued.
The Council has carried out further checks and confirmed that air quality in this area continues to improve. Based on the evidence, we propose to officially remove this AQMA.
Removing the AQMA reflects the cleaner air in the area. However, it does not mean we will stop monitoring air quality. We will continue to keep a close eye on pollution levels across the district to ensure they stay low.
Councillor John Preece, Portfolio Leader for Environment and Climate Change, said: “We’re proud that Cannock Chase continues to have good air quality. This proposal shows real progress in improving the local environment. We’ll keep working hard to make sure the air stays clean and healthy for all our residents.”
We welcome any comments or feedback you may have. Your views will be included in a report to Council members who will make the final decision. Please note, your comments will be considered as part of the decision-making process and shared in full, but personal information will be removed.
Consultation responses should be received by Friday 19 September 2025.
Further information, including the relevant reports, can be found on the council website: