Air quality

Wirral Council's Environmental Health team monitors:

  • Ozone (O3)
  • Nitrogen Oxides (NO2 and NO)
  • Benzene (C6H6)
  • Particulates (PM2.5)

The National air quality objectives and European Directive limit specify target values to protect human health.

View Wirral's Air Quality Strategy 2024 to 2028

Each year the council presents an update on local air quality by submitting an Annual Status Report (ASR) to the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).  The most recent ASR reports can be viewed below.

The PDF files below may not be suitable to view for people with disabilities, users of assistive technology or mobile phone devices.

View current air quality reports throughout the UK on GOV.UK

Air quality monitoring locations in Wirral

There are Automatic Urban Rural Network (AURN) monitoring stations in Birkenhead and Tranmere;

Latest air quality information

Latest air quality information from the Tranmere monitoring station

Latest air quality information from the Birkenhead monitoring station

How can I help improve air quality in Wirral?

If we all make at least one change, together we can create a better quality of air for ourselves, our family, other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

  • consider making small changes to your daily life, such as walking or cycling instead of driving, particularly for short journeys
  • consider car sharing (for example, when driving to and from work) and reducing vehicle emissions by not letting vehicle engines idle (that is, switching off a vehicle engine when it is stationary or parked)
  • switch off and save. If you’re in the car and at a stop, don’t leave your engine ticking over. This will prevent excessive air pollution and save you fuel. Turning off your engine when parked, loading or waiting at the roadside will save you money on fuel. It will also help look after you and your family’s health and the health of your community. Drivers may be fined for not switching off their engine when asked by an officer. Save money. Switch off. You’re the key!
  • take your feet to the street. Ditch the car and walk to school, to work or to the shops
  • take to two wheels. Leave the car at home and cycle or scoot
  • regularly service your car. Make sure it runs as efficiently and cleanly as possible
  • keep your car tyres inflated. Properly inflated tyres mean your car will be more efficient and use less fuel
  • carpool! Ask a colleague or friend to car share if travelling to the same place and share fuel and parking costs
  • ditch the car. Try an alternative transport option - buses, trains or even the ferry

We are a Clean Air Day Supporter and more information can be found at Clean Air Hub

Smoke from vehicles

If you have a complaint about smoke from a commercial diesel vehicle - like a bus or lorry - contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.

Report smoke from taxis to Wirral Council's Licensing Section