Smoke control orders were originally introduced by the Clean Air Act 1956 following the high number of deaths that had occurred during London smog episodes. Now replaced by the Clean Air Act 1993, local authorities can make orders so as to identify and designate land as a smoke control area, meaning that restrictions then apply to all premises within that area to prevent smoke being emitted from appliances or fuel.
It was queried how Councillors and residents would raise concerns should there be a suspected breach of the orders, to which officers responded that the preferred route would be through the Council’s website.
RESOLVED that:
1. An Order revoking older smoke control orders be made, which will be subject to public consultation and confirmation by the Secretary of State.
2. After public consultation, the expiry of relevant objection periods and Secretary of State confirmation, a new borough-wide smoke control order be approved.
3. That the Policy on enforcement of smoke control orders be approved.
Reason
Long term benefits will be a reduction in the quantity of PM2.5produced in the Borough, resulting in cleaner air and health benefits to those who live and work in the Borough.
(Councillor G Marshall took the Chair for the item as Councillor M Radulovic MBE left the room.)