There’s still time for Sandwell residents and businesses to have their say on improving air quality in the borough by taking part in the Smoke Control Area consultation, which ends on 20 June.

Sandwell Council’s proposal to replace the existing 51 Smoke Control Areas with a single, borough-wide Smoke Control Area could help improve local air quality. This could be achieved by reducing the amount of harmful air pollution that can be emitted from wood and coal burning stoves and fireplaces in homes and businesses.

Smoke Control Areas are commonly used in urban areas to help protect the local population from the negative health effects caused by smoke emitted from wood burning stoves and open fireplaces.

Only authorised fuels or exempt appliances can be used in a Smoke Control Area, and those breaking the rules can be fined.

Air pollution is a significant issue in Sandwell and some of the most harmful man-made air pollutants are emitted from wood and coal burning stoves. 
 
To find out more and take part in the online consultation, you can visit sandwell.gov.uk/smokecontrolarea.