SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ENDS RESTRICTIONS ON WOOD BURNING STOVES

SNP ministers introduced regulations in April - while still in a power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens - to ban new homes and buildings from using direct-emission heating systems including gas or oil boilers.

The rules were temporarily halted in September after concerns were raised that a ban on wood and peat burners would have a negative impact on people living in rural areas.

The government has now amended the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) regulations external, to allow the installation of bioenergy and peat main heating systems - and any type of secondary heating systems.

The ban on mains gas and oil boilers as a main heating system remains.

The government's proposals were designed to encourage builders to fit clean heating systems such as heat pumps or heat networks.

At the time, ministers said they hoped the move would help reduce air pollution and tackle climate change.