Help us make our air cleaner in Colchester – we want to hear from you.

Complete the survey
*Survey ends midnight Sunday 31 May 2026. Any queries, email clean.air@colchester.gov.uk

Why is it important to breathe clean air? 

It is important for our health that the air we breathe is clean. Air pollution is particularly damaging to: 

• children’s lungs as they are still growing 

• unborn foetuses of pregnant women 

• the elderly 

• those with breathing or heart problems 

How do we measure air pollution? 

In the UK, air pollution is measured in μg/m³. We work to National standards, and if air pollution exceeds 40μg/m³ continuously as a mean annual average, an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) is declared, requiring an Action Plan to reduce pollution. 

What areas don’t meet the National standards in Colchester? 

Until 2023, much of the city centre was an AQMA. However, in 2024 due to improved air quality, the AQMA was reduced to specific areas: the narrow end of Brook St, Mersea Road at St Botolphs roundabout, and Osborne and St Johns Street. 

What causes the air pollution in Colchester? 

In Colchester, the primary source of pollution is from vehicle exhausts and in the city centre the narrow streets with buildings close together means the pollutants become trapped (and can’t disperse into the surrounding air). That’s why it’s important to encourage people to choose less polluting and healthier travel options.  

What is Colchester City Council doing to improve the air we breathe? 

Colchester City Council have an action plan in place to tackle air pollution. This plan provides information, services, resources and encouragement to support residents and businesses to choose alternative transportation methods. The action plan promotes walking, cycling, public transport, shared transport and electric vehicles. Many projects are community-driven or community-supported. 

What feedback would you like from me? 

One year into our new action plan, Colchester City Council is keen to understand the impact of our work and to seek your views on areas for future focus. Please help us by completing the short survey at the top of this page. As a thank you for your participation you can enter a free prize draw to win one of five £50 shopping vouchers after completing the survey.

Want to learn more? 

If you would like to know more about the different sources and types of air pollution, their health impacts and action you can take to reduce your contribution to air pollution take our free 15 minute eLearning training.  

Take Care of Your Air – Tackling air pollution to protect your health 

Air Quality Management Areas in Colchester

Brook Street

Mersea Road

St Johns - Osborne Street