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Robust air quality assessment and valuable air quality design advice must be informed by robust qualitative tools. Dispersion modelling and air quality monitoring provide these methods and our expertise allows us to utilise them effectively.

Dispersion modelling

The use of dispersion modelling software allows for computational representation of real world pollution concentrations. We use this computational representation to assess current conditions at a proposed development and how a scheme will impact air quality at key periods throughout the future project lifecycle including during construction and operation. Dispersion modelling allows for scenario testing so the impact of different design decisions can be tested and qualitatively evaluated.

º£½ÇÊÓƵ’s air quality team have a wealth of experience in using dispersion modelling software and bespoke in-house tools which are aligned with the most up to date industry best practices and technical guidance. This experience allows us to ensure modelling is thorough and accurate. Through an interrogative QA/QC process and extensive sensitivity testing of key inputs, we minimise residual uncertainty. 

Our use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software is key to creating models which are as close to the real world as possible, and therefore ensuring a high level of confidence in modelling outputs and decision making that is robustly informed. GIS software is utilised to analyse the model outputs and allows modelling results to be communicated visually in an effective manner.

We always take a detailed and comprehensive approach to dispersion modelling. For example, a recent large-scale development consent order for a proposed visitor attraction involved modelling 560 roads, equating to a combined distance of 211km. This allowed us to consider impacts on both a micro and macro scale, and inform mitigation measures in line with the level of impact assessed. 

Air quality monitoring

Monitoring is vital to understand and assess the air quality conditions surrounding a site. Site-specific monitoring allows for a greater understanding of site constraints and can help improve modelling performance.

Knowledge of the existing air quality at a site is critical for a robust assessment. Much air quality data across the UK is publicly available but sometimes data is sparse in a particular location, or there is a complex scenario in which closer inspection is needed to fully understand the baseline conditions at a site. When this is the case air quality monitoring is required. Monitoring not only aids our understanding of on-site conditions but allows us to verify and adjust our dispersion modelling results to ensure modelling is as close to reality as possible.

We use accredited laboratories to carry out chemical analysis on air samples from the proposed site and then the data is quality assured using best practice techniques in industry guidance.