Agenda item

A Member noted the recent improvements in air quality in the City and raised a concern on behalf of a resident concerning the potential to introduce smoke free (cigarette) zones on City streets. Mindful of the City’s commitment to build on air improvements and in compliment to the development of Low Emission Neighbourhoods in the City, the Member suggested that a report be brought to the Board examining the feasibility of introducing Clean Air Zones near residential properties analogous to the Clean Air Zones already in place on private estates, e.g. the Broadgate Estate where there is no smoking.

Members were advised that it was the City’s Street Environment Officers who usually dealt with these issues and that the City Corporation had not been informed by any residents of suffering from smokers outside homes in this area. Officers agreed to look into the matter and follow up with staff in New Street Square to support to the resident that raised the concern, but it was acknowledged that significant criteria would need to apply to implement a PSPO restricting access over a public highway which was unlikely in this case.

A Member queried if there has been a higher update on the stop smoking campaign and services. Officers agreed to come back to the Board with accurate data on the uptake, but initial figures were reporting an increase in smoking and alcohol consumption during lockdown.