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Brighouse, a market town in West Yorkshire, England, resides within the Metropolitan Borough of Calderdale. Its geographic setting is profoundly shaped by the Pennine foothills, resulting in a varied terrain of valleys and rising slopes. Situated at coordinates 53.7070, -1.7940, the town is bisected by the River Calder and the Rochdale Canal, historically vital for industrial transport. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of moorland, agricultural land, and remnants of the heavy woollen industry that once dominated the region. Brighouse’s elevation, averaging around 120m, contributes to localised meteorological conditions. Historically, the town was a key centre within the Heavy Woollen District, and while industry has diversified, the legacy of mills and associated transport networks influences current air quality. The urban-rural gradient is relatively steep; moving eastwards quickly leads into more open moorland, while to the west, the landscape becomes increasingly urbanised towards Huddersfield and Leeds. This proximity to larger urban centres, coupled with the valley topography, can trap pollutants, particularly during calm weather conditions. The prevailing winds, often from the west, carry pollutants from these larger conurbations, impacting Brighouse’s air quality. The canal network, while picturesque, can also contribute to localised stagnation of air.

Brighouse experiences a temperate maritime climate, with air quality fluctuating significantly across the seasons. Winter (December-February) often sees the poorest air quality, driven by increased reliance on solid fuel heating and temperature inversions trapping pollutants in the Calder Valley. Calm, cold conditions exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and heating demand decreases, though pollen becomes a significant concern for allergy sufferers. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with prevailing winds dispersing pollutants and higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) sees a return to poorer conditions as heating use increases and damp weather encourages wood burning. November is often a particularly challenging month. Fog, common in the valley during autumn and winter, further reduces visibility and concentrates pollutants. Sensitive groups – the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of high pollution. Monitoring local forecasts and avoiding peak traffic times are advisable year-round. The damp climate also encourages mould growth, impacting indoor air quality.