Smoke from demolition
or construction sites
Bonfires should not be used on any
construction or demolition sites.
Burning materials cause smoke that contain carbon
monoxide, particles and a range of noxious compounds. A bonfire
will add to the background level of air pollution, which can cause
adverse health affects to persons on site and beyond the site
boundary. The smoke, smell and smuts from bonfires can also cause
annoyance to neighbours and bonfires can get out of control and
become dangerous.
The Clean Air Act 1993, makes it an offence to burn
any material that results in the emission of dark smoke on
industrial or trade premises (including demolition sites), with a
maximum fine of £20,000.
The Environmental Protection Act 1990, gives Local
Authorities and the Environment Agency the power to control smoke
arising from burning waste on site. In cases where complaints have
been received, or the Council has reason to believe that burning is
to take place and nuisance is likely to occur, an Abatement Notice
may be served, prohibiting nuisance and specifying steps to be
taken to minimise further problems. If the requirements of the
notice are not satisfied the Local Authority can enforce by taking
legal proceedings