Brighton and Hove councilors are being asked to approve the extension of the smoke control area at a meeting of the environment, transport and sustainability committee this afternoon. The smoke control area currently covers much of Hanover, Lewes Street, Bevendean and the city centre. The use of non-certified wood-burning stoves is prohibited in these areas. Open fire wood burning is also illegal in smoke controlled areas and some appliances are only exempt for certain fuels. However, outdoor burners such as fireplaces and barbecues are not covered by smoke control legislation. The measure is part of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Air Quality Action Plan. In a report to the environment, transport and sustainability committee this afternoon, the council said: “The council will consider a city-wide smoke control site with the aim of reducing chimney smoke.” The report also recommends that the committee ask officers to “prioritise the development and delivery of a smoke control site across the city to help tackle the harmful effects of particulate matter”. Households burning illegal fuel can be fined up to £300 by the council if they decide a household is producing too much smoke, or up to £1,000 for burning unauthorized fuel with an uncertified appliance.
