Scottish government pauses wood burning stove ban in rural U-turn

The Scottish government has temporarily halted plans to ban wood burning stoves in newbuild homes, following backlash from rural communities and political opponents.

The regulations, part of the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) introduced in April, had aimed to promote cleaner heating systems such as heat pumps, but were put under review in May after concerns were raised about the impact on rural areas where many rely on wood burners during power outages.

The pause allows wood burners and other biofuel systems to be installed while the review concludes, with a final decision expected by December 2024.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes had voiced concerns about the potential harm the ban could cause to her rural constituents, especially older residents. Climate Action Minister Alasdair Allan confirmed that the restrictions would be temporarily lifted, allowing installations to continue in the interim.

Opposition parties have called the reversal a “humiliating U-turn.” Scottish Conservative rural spokesman Jamie Halcro Johnston welcomed the decision, warning that a permanent ban would have been devastating for rural communities.

The Stove Industry Association (SIA) praised the move as a “common sense and progressive step,” arguing that modern wood burners offer a low-carbon heating alternative. However, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has reiterated its call for wood burning stoves to be phased out in urban areas due to health concerns over air pollution.