The London Plan introduces stringent requirements for new developments, requiring that these are demonstrated to be “Air Quality Neutral”.

An air quality neutral assessment is a process that evaluates the impact of a proposed development on the local air quality, comparing the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM10) from the buildings and transport of the development with the air quality neutral benchmarks. The aim is to ensure that new developments do not worsen the poor air quality in London.

Development may also need to demonstrate that they are “Air Quality Positive”. This requires a demonstration of the measures taken during the design stages to achieve the best possible outcomes for air quality. The aim is to ensure that new developments not only avoid worsening air quality but also demonstrably help to improve it.