The Neighbourhoods, Environment and Climate Change Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to discuss a range of important environmental and transport-related issues. Key topics include the city's Air Quality Vision and Action Plan, the Vision Zero Strategy for road safety, and an update on the Manchester Active Travel Strategy.

Manchester Air Quality Vision and Action Plan 2026-2040

The committee is set to consider the proposed Manchester Air Quality Vision and Action Plan 2026–2040. This plan outlines the council's strategy for improving air quality and public health, aiming to reduce pollution and people's exposure to it. It focuses on four key priorities: protecting health and reducing inequalities, reducing pollution at source, creating healthier places to live, learn, and work, and embedding clean air considerations into council decisions and services. The plan builds upon existing commitments and introduces new proposals to address both outdoor and indoor air quality. The committee is expected to note the report and the Vision and Action Plan for consideration by the Executive.

Vision Zero Strategy and Road Safety

A draft Vision Zero Strategy and Action Plan will be presented, with the aim of ending deaths and serious injuries on Manchester's roads by 2040. This strategy adopts a Safe System approach, recognising that human error should not lead to fatalities or serious harm. It focuses on five pillars: Safe Road Users, Safe Streets, Safe Speeds, Safe Vehicles, and Post-Crash Response. The committee will be asked to comment on the draft strategy and it will be put forward for public consultation. The report also includes an update on the progress of the council's existing Road Safety Programme, detailing completed and planned schemes such as junction improvements, traffic calming measures, and the expansion of 20mph speed limits.

Manchester Active Travel Strategy and Investment Plan – Update on Progress

An annual update on the delivery of the Manchester Active Travel Strategy and Investment Plan will be provided. This plan, adopted in February 2023, aims to encourage walking, wheeling, and cycling. Recent progress includes the introduction of camera-enforced School Streets, expansion of the cycle hangar programme, support for a walking and cycling bus pilot, and the completion of the citywide Active Travel Network Plan. The report will also outline future delivery stages, including further School Streets, cycle parking, and inclusive access improvements. The committee is invited to consider and comment on this update.

Highways State of the City Report

A report on the Highways State of the City is scheduled to be presented. Further details on the specific content of this report are not yet available.

Overview Report

The committee will receive an Overview Report, which includes details of key decisions relevant to the committee's remit, an update on actions resulting from previous committee recommendations, and the committee's work programme. Members will be asked to agree the work programme. The report also notes that the next Aviation Emissions report is expected to be published in late 2026 or early 2027, and the committee is expected to consider this report when it becomes available.