Air Quality Assessment – Bigland Street

ACCON carried out a comprehensive air quality assessment for the redevelopment of the Darul Ummah School in Bigland Street, London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

The proposal included the demolition of the existing school building, Jamiatul Ummah School and the development of a new school with a capacity of 450 pupils, to included prayer halls, community facilities, on-site pupil accommodation and a secondary school with an elevated playground.

Located in an Air Quality Management Area, the issues of ambient pollution levels and air quality and dust generation were raised by the Council.

The detailed air quality assessment considered the overall levels of hydrocarbons, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulates (PM₁₀) in the vicinity of the site. Pollutant concentrations identified that, in the area of the proposed development, it was unlikely that air quality limits would be exceeded or constrain development. Our assessment showed that additional traffic generated during the construction and operational phases would not result in a significant impact on air quality at other sensitive receptors at other sensitive receptors.

The proposed development was seven storeys high with three basement levels which include the sports facilities. An outdoor playground would be situated on the fifth floor, where the air quality would not be an issue as NO₂ concentrations reduce with height.

Additionally a risk assessment for dust generation during the demolition and construction for the new development was completed at the request of the Council. The assessment identified that the risk of significant adverse effects resulting from emissions of fine particles and dust during demolition and construction would be medium as defined in the London Best Practice Guidance.

Contact: Christine Park – 0118 971 0000