Smoke control area expanded to whole city

Households across the whole of York are now covered by a smoke control area, the council has said.

The rules, which limit the way residents use wood-burning stoves, aim to improve air quality and protect people's health.

Previously, about 80% of the city was covered by a smoke control area which has now been expanded to the whole of York.

The council said the expansion would make the rules "easier to understand" and "reduce preventable deaths".

According to the authority, smoke from open fires and stoves is one of the main sources of tiny air pollution particles known as PM2.5, which can enter the lungs and bloodstream.

Peter Roderick, director of public health for York, said: "Solid fuel burning accounts for nearly a third of PM2.5 emissions in York.

"There are no safe levels of these particles - they harm everyone, especially children and older people.

"Expanding the smoke control area is a proportionate, evidence-based step to protect health and reduce preventable deaths."

Residents can continue to use wood-burning stoves or open fires but must follow certain restrictions.

Wood can still be burned indoors if it is dry and properly-seasoned but only in a stove that meets modern standards set by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Older wood burners or open fireplaces can also still be used as long as "smokeless" fuels such as anthracite is used.

Other rules mean prolonged smoke from chimneys attached to buildings will not be allowed for more than 15 minutes after initially lighting a fire.

People who repeatedly break the rules following advice could face a fine of up to £300.

Labour councillor Jenny Kent said: "This is not about saying people can't use stoves or open fires.

"It is about helping people use the right fuel in the right way, so we can all benefit from cleaner air."

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