Smoke control order to include waterways in city

A new Smoke Control Area (SCA) has come into place to include all properties in Birmingham, including on its waterways.

The city council said that as of Monday, residents and users of moored boat vessels, such as canal boats, will not be permitted to emit visible smoke from a chimney. Only authorised fuels in an open fireplace or the burning of other solid fuels, such as wood, in a Defra-exempt appliance are allowed.

The order follows the announcement from DEFRA that domestic wood burning is now one of the largest sources of fine particulate pollution in the UK, responsible for 22% of PM2.5 emissions.

The Canal and River Trust has been contacted for comment.

A public consultation was held where the council said feedback indicated broad support for applying the order to fixed dwellings and industrial buildings.

However, there were concerns around extending it to moored vessels due to reliance on solid fuels, the costs of them and the availability of alternatives.

The council said that while the order comes into effect today, there will be further engagement and a proportionate enforcement approach for the boating community.

If rules are not followed in a Smoke Control Area and visible smoke is seen being emitted from your chimney, a fine of up to £300 could be given.

Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport said: "This order is a vital part of our mission to improve air quality in Birmingham, and this update brings our policy in line with the Environment Act of 2021.

"While Birmingham is rightly proud of its waterways, we must also consider the environmental impact of vessels that are moored in our city.

"Wood burning may feel like a lifestyle choice, but the smoke does not stay within one home. It affects neighbours, children, older people and those with existing health conditions."

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.