Fresh Air for Marcham: Air Quality Improvements Lead to Revocation of Management Area

In a significant step towards better environmental health, Marcham residents can celebrate a noticeable improvement in air quality as announced during a recent meeting of the Vale of White Horse District Council Licensing Committee. On January 15, 2026, councillors revealed that over the past five years, the air quality in the Marcham Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) has shown consistent reductions in nitrogen dioxide, a primary pollutant associated with vehicle emissions.

Positive Environmental Changes

The district's commitment to improving air quality has led to successful results, particularly in Marcham, which, along with Abingdon and Botley, had previously registered nitrogen dioxide levels above national targets. The council's Air Quality Action Plan, designed specifically for AQMAs, has proven effective in lowering pollution levels.

As a result of meeting the government’s criteria for air quality improvements, councillors voted to revoke Marcham's AQMA. This decision aligns with the recommendations from the Department for Environmental, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), which states that areas can be considered for revocation after three consecutive years of compliance with air quality objectives.

Ongoing Monitoring and Future Commitment

Councillor Dr. Robert Clegg expressed his satisfaction with the reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels along the A415 through Marcham. He acknowledged the community's concerns regarding air quality and impending developments alongside efforts to promote sustainable transport options. "We will continue to work at improving air quality across the whole district by encouraging active travel, public transport, and the take-up of no or low-emission vehicles," he stated.

With Marcham’s AQMA now revoked, Botley remains the only area within the district still under this designation. The Vale of White Horse District Council plans to maintain rigorous air quality monitoring in collaboration with the National Highways and other partners, ensuring that the improvements continue and that the local environment is protected for future generations.