Wood burning stoves U-turn as new build homes ban scrapped

-Credit: (Image: Getty)
-Credit: (Image: Getty)


SNP ministers have performed a significant U-turn as they voted to scrap a ban on wood burning stoves in new-build homes. The Scottish Government revealed that it has lifted the ban following substantial backlash from industry, rural communities, opposition parties and even some of its own politicians.

This contentious decision was quietly implemented in April when it was discovered that new building standards had been introduced which prohibited bioenergy heating systems, including wood burning stoves, in new developments. Councils were contacted on Thursday to make sure the new changes are implemented, it has been reported.

Scottish Conservative deputy rural affairs spokesman Jamie Halcro Johnston said: "This long overdue climbdown by the SNP on their deeply flawed ban is a welcome move. Sustained pressure from the Scottish Conservatives - including when I held a members debate in Parliament - as well as from our rural and island communities has now forced ministers into a humiliating U-turn.

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"The consequences of imposing such a ban on installing wood burning stoves in new homes would have been devastating for those that rely on them, especially when there are periods of extreme weather. However, with the lifting of this ban still only temporary, the Scottish Conservatives will continue to urge the SNP to do the right thing and make it permanent."

Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie was initially responsible for the introduction of the new building standards when he was in government as minister for zero carbon buildings. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes led the backlash by saying wood burners are ‘essential’ for some in rural Scotland while former Green MSP Andy Wightman said the ban was "disproportionate" given the benefit wood can bring as a low-carbon heat source.

Stephen Talbot, sales director at Logs Direct, has welcomed the decision. He said: "Log burning is much more environmentally friendly than many reports have suggested, with previous data and research not separating domestic log burning in homes from bonfires and open outdoor fires, which can be significantly worse when it comes to emissions due to a lack of sorting of the fuel used.

"Wood burning stoves offer a renewable energy source that can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. However, it's important for households to be educated on best practices for using wood burning stoves, including the importance of burning dry, seasoned wood to minimise environmental impact and regularly cleaning your stove and chimney.

"This U-turn demonstrates a willingness to listen to industry concerns and the heating needs of UK households, recognising the importance of wood burning stoves to those seeking cost-effective, sustainable heating options. They provide a reliable and cost-effective heating solution that is especially valuable in the face of rising energy prices. This decision ensures that many families across the UK can continue to heat their homes affordably and efficiently."