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Smoke Control Areas & Smog
In the 1950s and 1960s, the UK suffered smog, which was a deadly mixture of both smoke (from the widespread burning of coal) and fog plus other pollution combined. The Clean Air Acts of 1956 and 1968 were introduced to deal with the smogs, which was responsible for many premature deaths in the UK.
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One of the worst smogs was that of the one in 1952, where it left many dead in London. The smog was so toxic that it was reported to have choked cows to death in the fields and transport came to an almost standstill. Sadly this was just one of many that would follow in subsequent years.
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However, smoke control areas were established, although that meant emissions of smoke from domestic properties were banned. The Act gave power to local councils to control emissions, which gave rise to these controlled areas, which in turn reduced the occurrences of smog.
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Over the years, more and more smoke control areas have been introduced, which cover the Midlands, parts of Yorkshire, Central and NE England, and also parts of southern Scotland. The reduction of smoke and sulphur dioxide from the 1950s to the present day is down to these smoke control areas, the increased use of natural gas, and key changes in the industrial and economic structure of the UK. The air we breathe now is cleaner thanks to these changes.
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Smoke Control Areas
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You should contact your local council to find out if you are living in a smoke control zone. You will be able to find your local council here
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The Clean Air Act may state either all or only part of a given district to be a smoke control area. If you are living in a smoke control area it is illegal to emit smoke from a chimney. It is also illegal to use an unauthorised fuel for use in one of these areas, unless in an “exempt” appliance.
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What Are Exempt Appliances?
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These are stoves, ovens, and wood burners, which have been exempted by Statutory Instruments (Orders) under the Clean Air Act 1993 or Clean Air (Northern Ireland) Order 1981. All Charlton & Jenrick stoves are exempt appliances (not including the 4Kw range).
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What Are Authorised Fuels?
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These are fuels that have passed tests to confirm that they are capable of burning in an open fireplace without producing smoke. There are different authorised fuels for different parts of the UK, all of which are listed below:
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England – View Authorised Fuels
Wales – View Authorised Fuels
Scotland – View Authorised Fuels
Northern Ireland – View Authorised Fuels
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To learn more about our range of fires and stoves, and how we can help you if you live in a smoke controlled area please get in touch on 01952 200 44.
