Birmingham extending smokeless zones to include narrowboats

Published: Monday, 30 June 2025

ADDITIONAL CONTROLS concerning smokeless zones being put into place include narrowboats in Birmingham.

As a result of these changes it is necessary to revoke the previous Smoke Control Orders and make a new Smoke Control Order, Keith Gudgin reports.

Moored vessels

These will also extend the provisions of the Clean Air Act to moored vessels as well as dwelling houses.

For the majority of Birmingham residents there will be no change, but for those boaters mooring in Birmingham there will be tighter controls.

The Whole of Birmingham is a Smoke Control Area, designated under the provisions of the Clean Air Act 1983 to improve air quality. As a result of this, residents are only allowed to burn authorised fuels in an open fireplace or an exempt appliance. Burning coal is not permitted in Birmingham.

Consult with public

But there is a requirement to consult with the public before making the new order.

The secretary of the BCN Society, Michael Smith Keary, tells:

"I am happy for people to respond to the consultation directly or let me have their views and we’ll compile a response on behalf of the Society."  sThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.