Smoke Control

There have been dramatic improvements over the years in urban air quality through the introduction of smoke control programmes. As a result we no longer experience the appalling smogs of the 1950s and 60s. Attention is now being focused on other pollutants, for example, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide and fine particulates (PM10).

Since 1966 approximately 120 Smoke Control Orders have been declared by councils.

Compliance by householders or occupants, at its simplest, involves the installation of smokeless fires and/or the use of suitable smokeless fuels.

Many more homes in Northern Ireland are heated by solid fuel compared to Great Britain where natural gas is more widely available.

Grant-aid towards the cost of replacing unsuitable heating appliances is apportioned as:

• 40% approved costs paid by Department.
• 30% approved costs paid by council.
• 30% approved costs paid by householder or occupier.

In September 1998 regulations were made which ban the sale of unauthorised fuels in Smoke Control Areas and set a maximum 2% limit on the sulphur content of solid domestic fuel. It is hoped that these new controls will drive down levels of sulphur dioxide and particulates still further.

An updated policy guidance on smoke control areas has recently been issued by the Department (489kb)

Visit the UK Smoke Control Areas website and Air Quality Northern Ireland website for further information on smoke control.