Wood burners in effect banned in new and refurbished homes in London

Planning guidance from mayor sets air pollution limits that would not be met with solid fuel burners installed

Wood burners have been in effect banned in new and refurbished buildings in London. New planning guidance announced by the mayor sets air pollution limits for home and office developments that would not be met if burners for wood or other solid fuels were installed.

Wood burning in towns and cities is a major contributor to toxic air pollution particles, which have been linked to a wide range of health problems, including heart and lung disease, dementia and mental illness in children. Dirty air causes thousands of early deaths a year in London alone, and 26,000 to 38,000 in England.