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Selsey, a coastal town in West Sussex, England, occupies a unique geographical position on the Manhood Peninsula, a low-lying stretch of land jutting into the English Channel. Its coordinates (50.7350, -0.7898) place it within a predominantly rural landscape, though increasingly influenced by commuter belts extending from nearby Chichester. The terrain is remarkably flat, rarely exceeding 20 metres above sea level, making it particularly vulnerable to storm surges and coastal flooding. This flatness also impacts air dispersion, limiting the natural flushing of pollutants. Selsey’s proximity to the sea – it’s almost entirely surrounded by water and shingle beaches – introduces a significant maritime influence, with prevailing southwesterly winds. However, these winds can also carry pollutants from the densely populated south coast and, occasionally, from continental Europe. While Selsey itself lacks heavy industry, the surrounding agricultural zones contribute to particulate matter from farming activities, particularly during harvest seasons. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; moving inland quickly transitions from coastal development to farmland and woodland. This coastal location, combined with the flat topography, creates a specific microclimate that influences local air quality patterns, making it susceptible to localised pollution build-up under certain meteorological conditions.

Selsey’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Winter (December-February) often sees poorer air quality due to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground and reducing dispersion. Calm, cold conditions combined with wood burning for heating contribute to increased particulate matter. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates the issue. Spring (March-May) generally brings improvement as winds pick up and rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants. However, agricultural activities, such as fertiliser application, can lead to ammonia emissions. Summer (June-August) typically offers the best air quality, benefiting from strong sea breezes and higher temperatures promoting pollutant dispersal. However, increased tourist activity and road traffic can cause localised spikes in nitrogen dioxide. Autumn (September-November) sees a gradual decline in air quality as temperatures fall and heating demand rises. November is often a transition month, with increased particulate matter from leaf fall and the start of wood burning. Sensitive individuals – those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and young children – should be particularly cautious during winter and early spring. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on still, cold days is advisable, and monitoring local conditions is crucial.