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Gedling borough residents warned over parcel thefts after an iPhone, perfume and a jacket are stolen from doorsteps

Residents in Gedling borough are being warned of the risks of parcel theft in the run-up to Christmas after a jacket, perfume and an iPhone were stolen from doorsteps.

Police are now reminding online shoppers to be careful about where their Christmas gifts are being delivered after recent reports of thefts

Nottinghamshire Police say they have received a spate of reports in recent weeks involving the theft of parcels left outside people’s homes.

DPD parcel

A jacket ordered from Zara was stolen from a porch and an Apple iPhone was removed from a parcel left outside an address and £100 worth of perfume was taken from a doorstep.

Nottinghamshire Police is now encouraging everyone to take appropriate action when ordering items online, ensuring they are protected to help prevent parcel theft.

Chief Inspector Chris Pearson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “With more people shopping online, thieves are seeing this an opportunity to target parcels.

“This type of crime is preventable, and we’re asking everyone to do all that they can to stop this crime happening.

“Ask for your deliveries to be diverted to trusted neighbours or friends if you’re are not going to be home. If this isn’t possible, attempt to rearrange to a time when you know you will be in or choose to collect it instead.

“We’re asking everyone to work together over the festive period and beyond, to eliminate this type of crime in our communities.”

Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of parcel theft:

– Track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery

– Install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system

– Install a security light and/or CCTV

– Arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members who will be at home.

– Use an off-site locker service for frequent deliveries, or for expensive items; these parcel boxes are more likely to be in busy, safer locations – such as supermarkets – rather than secluded areas which could be targeted by thieves.

If you have ordered a delivery which has not arrived, first contact the delivery company and sender.

If you think a parcel has been stolen or notice anyone acting suspicious, you can make a report online or by calling 101.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Climate group issues major health warning to anyone with wood burning stove in their home

Wood-burning stoves produce 150 times more tiny particle pollution than a modern HGV truck, a new report by campaigning group Clean Air Nottingham (CAN) claims.

There are some 60 to 70 premature deaths from these fine particles boroughs in Broxtowe, Erewash, Gedling and Rushcliffe, with wood burning blamed as ‘a major and growing contributor’. In Nottingham city 140 premature deaths reported each year.

CAN’s Time To Log Off report, published today, also warns that wood stoves can triple air pollution inside the home.

Report author Roger Critchley is now calling on local councils across Notts to take urgent action and raise awareness around the health dangers of wood burning in the home.

He said: “Wood fires may look so comforting and warming yet they are the fastest growing source of deadly particle pollution known as PM2.5. These fine particles are linked to some 29,000 deaths each year in the UK. They are breathed deep into the lungs and then enter the bloodstream allowing exposure to virtually all cells in our bodies.

“Harmful particles from wood burning increased by 124% between 2011 and 2021. More than 500 new stoves are sold each day and wood burning now causes almost double the fine particle pollution from traffic. 

“Our report shows how present smoke control laws are useless in tackling this problem. What we have here is ‘Woodgate’, another national scandal similar to ‘Dieselgate‘. People are told they are making green choices but the real health effects are hidden from them.

“They have been deceived and let down by the Government.”

Gedling Borough Council is currently seeking to extend its existing Smoke Control Areas to cover the whole borough.

Clean Air Nottingham now wants local authorities are called on to investigate and initiate a burn ban for certain days of the year, and to set up a monitoring system pinpointing local pollution hot spots.

The group has also called on the Government is called to follow the advice of its Climate Change Committee and set a date to stop home installation of wood burning stoves from 2025; ban used from 2027 of installed wood burners, (with exceptions), to prioritise the passing of the Clean Air (Human Rights) Bill, and to give local authorities power and resources to monitor and reduce air pollution in their areas.

Clear Air Nottingham will today send their report to all five local Councils, including Gedling Borough Council, and request meetings.

Everything You Need to Know About Solar Energy – and Why It’s the Next Best Thing in Gedling

In the heart of Gedling, a sustainable energy revolution is underway – and it’s powered by none other than the sun. Solar energy has indeed emerged as a game-changer in the pursuit of cleaner and more sustainable alternatives, especially in the UK. But what do you need to know about solar energy, and how does it really benefit your household or your business? Here’s everything you need to know about it – and why it’s becoming the next best thing in Gedling.

The basics

Solar energy, as we all know, is derived from the sun’s rays, which are harnessed through solar panels to generate electricity or heat water. The process involves photovoltaic cells converting the sun’s power into direct current electricity, which is then transformed into alternating current for use in homes and businesses. This eco-friendly energy source offers a renewable and abundant alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Solar energy in Gedling – a growing trend

According to a commercial solar company like Atlantic Renewables, Gedling is fast becoming a hotspot for solar energy adoption. The region’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the increasing number of homes and businesses investing in solar panels. The local government’s initiatives and incentives have further fueled this trend, making solar energy more accessible and affordable for residents.

The benefits of solar energy in Gedling

  1. Clean and renewable: Solar energy is a clean and renewable resource, producing electricity without emitting harmful pollutants. By harnessing the power of the sun, Gedling residents can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier environment.
  2. Reduced energy bills: We are also aware that solar panels enable home and business owners to generate electricity, reducing dependence on the grid. This translates to lower energy bills, offering a cost-effective solution in the long run.
  3. Government incentives: The local government in Gedling is actively promoting solar energy adoption through various incentives and rebates. These initiatives aim to make solar installations more financially viable for residents, encouraging widespread adoption.
  4. Energy independence: Solar panels provide a degree of energy independence, allowing homeowners and businesses to generate their own power – and this resilience becomes crucial during times of grid outages or disruptions.

Challenges and solutions

While the benefits of solar energy are numerous, challenges such as initial installation costs and intermittency need addressing. Fortunately, technological advancements and government support are making solar energy more affordable and efficient. Innovations in energy storage solutions, such as improved batteries, are mitigating the issue of intermittency, ensuring a stable and consistent power supply.

The future of solar energy in Gedling

As technology continues to evolve, the future of solar energy in Gedling definitely looks promising! Researchers are exploring ways to enhance the efficiency of solar panels and improve energy storage capabilities. With ongoing community awareness programs and government backing, Gedling is poised to become a shining example of a sustainable and solar-powered community.

Solar energy is not just a buzzword in Gedling; it’s a transformative force shaping the region’s energy landscape. As Gedling embraces solar energy, residents are not only contributing to a greener planet but also securing a more sustainable future for generations. So, if you’re in Gedling, it might be time to consider harnessing the power of the sun for a brighter and cleaner tomorrow.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

See the latest Gedling borough planning applications – w/e 1/12/23

These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council this week.

17 applications were submitted to Gedling Borough Council and validated over the last week by the planning department.

Here is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers validated this week (w/e 1/12/23) which include new industrial units, tree works, extensions and a couple of new detached houses and will now decide on. 

More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE.


Approval of details reserved by conditions 10 (CEMP emission), 14 (CEMP environment), 15 (bats), 17 (path detail), 18 (trees) and 19 (landscaping) of planning permission 2022/0006

Land Georges Lane Calverton Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0835DOC 


Erection of two-bedroom detached house with roof-mounted solar panels. 

238 Carlton Hill Carlton Nottinghamshire NG4 1FY.  Ref. No: 2023/0827 


Variation of condition 1 of reserved matters approval 2021/1332 (amendment to the Landscape Management Plan) 

Ashdale Nottingham Road Burton Joyce Nottinghamshire NG14 5AQ.  Ref. No: 2023/0828 


Single storey rear extension 

5 Mill Lane Lambley Nottinghamshire NG4 4PS.  Ref. No: 2023/0825 


Single-story rear extension and loft conversion with rear dormer 

The Headlands Church Lane Linby Nottinghamshire NG15 8AB.  Ref. No: 2023/0824 


New Verge and Pavement Crossing 

Land Adjacent Blue Eaves Mansfield Road Ravenshead Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0821 


Approval of details reserved by condition 4 (Phasing Plan) of outline planning permission 2020/0050 

Land At Top Wighay Farm Wighay Road Linby Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0823 


Existing 15.0m High Monopole c/w 3No. Antennas (total height 17.46m) to be removed and replaced with Proposed 20.0m High CU Phosco Monopole c/w Phase 4.51 Headframe together with 3No. Antennas and associated ancillary works. 

Communications Station Foxwood Lane Woodborough Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0816 


Two storey side extension 

36 Moore Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6EF.  Ref. No: 2023/0834 


Fell sycamore tree 

10 Annes Close Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6DB.  Ref. No: 2023/0803TPO 


Single storey rear and side extension with new flat roof. 

130 Haywood Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6AF.  Ref. No: 2023/0804 


New storage container associated with Gedling Southbank FC together with associated ground work in respect of site levels 

Richard Herrod Leisure Centre Foxhill Road Central Carlton Nottinghamshire NG4 1RL.  Ref. No: 2023/0778 


T1 – ASH – Tree is in decline as has ash dieback 

57A Plains Road Woodthorpe Nottinghamshire NG3 5LB.  Ref. No: 2023/0763TPO 


Tree T6 (apple) – prune out all dead, damaged, diseased, wood and crossing branches and open-up the crown to make it less crowded. 

Sherwood House Main Street Linby Nottinghamshire NG15 8AE.  Ref. No: 2023/0740TCA 


Steel portal framed building 

Land At Mansfield Road Ravenshead Nottinghamshire.  Ref. No: 2023/0730 


Erection of two storey detached dwelling 

121 Haywood Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6AF.  Ref. No: 2023/0717 


Demolition of existing redundant buildings and construction of 5 new industrial buildings. 

Goodman Metal Works Road No 7 Colwick Nottinghamshire NG4 2JW.  Ref. No: 2023/0669 


Plans for new Popeyes drive-thru near Netherfield approved despite opposition

Popeyes has been granted permission to build a drive-through outlet near Netherfield despite road safety and litter worries from residents and councillors.

Members of the planning committee at Gedling Borough Council approved the American fried chicken giant’s application for the new outlet on Magenta Way near Teal Park yesterday (29) with a majority of one.

A new 2,500 sq ft restaurant will now be built containing a 65-seating area, drive-thru, car-parking and click-and-collect bays.

The restaurant chain has said the new drive-thru will create up to 100 new jobs.

Pictured: Proposed elevation views. Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council Planning

The application was approved, but not all councillors supported it with both Conservative and Labour councillors raising concerns over road safety, litter, noise and potential anti-social behaviour.

More than 40 residents from nearby residential estates like Rivendell also voiced concerns, with some attending the meeting to make their views heard.

An amendment to the plans was requested and accepted with councillors calling for waste management plans to include regular litter picking around the site.

Tom Crowley, CEO at Popeyes UK, said: “It’s great to see how enthusiastically the UK has welcomed Popeyes, and we’re particularly proud to be opening our first drive-thru locations. Following the success of our Upper Parliament Street restaurant which landed in Autumn 2022, opening a drive-thru location locally was an obvious choice for us.

“We’re looking forward to expanding our offering in Nottingham.”

Nottingham Forest legend Mark Crossley to host event at Carlton’s Inn For a Penny

Ex Nottingham Forest footballer Mark Crossley is set to host an event on 7 December at The Inn For a Penny pub in Carlton.

Crossley, who played as goalkeeper for Forest in over 300 apps, will meet fans at the “Local Legends” event sponsored by Carling and hosted by The Inn For a Penny.

During the evening, Crossley will discuss his career as a goalkeeper as well as take questions from fans.

The Inn For a Penny pub, where the event will be hosted, reopened in November after a £450,000 makeover by pub owner Greene King, creating 18 new full time and part time jobs.

The pub, which has both Sky Sports and TNT Sports subscriptions, prides itself on its live sport offer, shown across multiple TVs ensuring a perfect viewing angle wherever you’re sat.

Colin and Sandra Meakin, new franchise operators of The Inn For a Penny, said: “As a pub that loves it’s sport, we’re really looking forward to giving Mark a proper welcome to The Inn For a Penny. It will be a great opportunity for fans to meet this Forest legend in person!”

Local Legends is an event hosted by Carling giving fans the chance to meet their sporting heroes and reflect on their sporting achievements.

Each ticket purchased comes with a complimentary pint of Carling.

The Local Legends event will take place at The Inn For a Penny on Burton Road in Carlton starting at 6:30pm on 7 December. Tickets are £11.25 and can be purchased here.

Letters: Drivers should turn off their engines when stuck in traffic

Our readers from across the borough give their weekly take on the biggest issues impacting Gedling and beyond.

You can write a letter of your own to us by filling in the simple form below, and it may appear online.

Some letters refer to past correspondence which can be found by clicking HERE. Join the debate by email. Send your letter to letters@gedlingeye.co.uk and put ‘Letters’ in the subject line.

Names and addresses will be withheld by request but must be included in the email.

Switch off engines

WALKING into Netherfield around 9.30am the town streets were chock-a-block with cars and delivery vehicles.

With the ongoing issues involving the railway crossings, they were literally bumper to bumper.

Walking down the line of traffic I didn’t notice a single vehicle with its engines turned off despite them being nose to tail and stationary.

You often read comments regarding the pollution levels in the borough, often blamed on traffic queuing. But in the very centre of town this is totally unacceptable.

Surely action by one of the Gedling Neighbourhood Wardens or the police reminding motorists to turn off their engines whilst stationary would ease the pollution levels in Netherfield and town centres in. the borough with similar traffic problems.

Matthew Latham,
Colwick

Lost the pot

What on earth is happening on Shelford Road in Gedling?

It was recently closed for a few days for pothole repairs. They did 2 or 3 unconnected sections then cleared off again, leaving the worst bits untouched! Here is one of them…

PICTURED: A pothole on Shelford Road (PHOTO:David Pick)

David Pick,
Gedling

We have had enough reminders of our jabs

AM I the only person to be irritated by the constant reminders from the NHS regarding our eligibility for the flu and Covid jabs?

We receive them by post and email we must have had best part of a tree in letters.

Surely records are kept indicating we have had them?

Pam Bruce,
Mapperley

Shops – shut your doors

WHY do shops persist in having their doors open?

This is a shocking waste of energy and contributes to climate change. A simple sign ‘Come In, We Are Open’ must be clear enough to potential customers.

The poor assistants wouldn’t have to put up with cold draughts if they can keep the doors closed, something I experienced when working recently in a shop.

Toni Ryder,
Arnold

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    The Vibe – your guide to what’s going on in Gedling borough (1 December – 7 December)

    Here’s our latest round-up of latest events taking place from Friday December 1 to Thursday December 7 across the borough.


    Friday, December 1


    Christmas Fair & Market – Arnold Mill Primary School, 3.30pm – 5.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Christmas Fair – St.John the Baptist Primary School, Colwick, 4.30pm-6.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Gedling Christmas Tree Lighting – Gedling Miner’s Memorial, 6.00pm


    Calverton Christmas Lights Switch On – St. Wilfrids Square, Calverton 3.00pm – 7.00pm


    Christmas Market – Spring Lane Farm Shop, Mapperley, 5.00pm – 9.00pm


    Christmas Lights Switch On & Market – Netherfield, 4.00pm – 7.00pm


    Christmas Karaoke – Eagles Corner, Arnold, 7.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Trent Valley Singers Charity Christmas Concert – Burton Joyce Village Hall, 7.30pm

    £8pp including refreshments


    Lee Paver – Waggon & Horses, Arnold, 6.30pm

    Click for More Information


    Friday Quiz Night – Burnt Stump Inn, 8.00pm

    The quiz is a Web based quiz so a phone tablet or laptop will be needed – don’t worry if not 100% with technology it’s really easy and our team are on hand to support if needed

    Click for More information


    Reggae Rocks Soul – Top Spot, Carlton

    Click for More Information


    The SKAs – Calverton Working Men’s Club

    Click for More Information


    Lucy Fur Comedy Drag Act – Arnold Liberal Club, 8.00pm

    £6 in advance / £10 on the door

    Click for More Information


    Lee Price – Beacon Hill, Carlton, 9.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Saturday, December 2


    Burton Joyce Christmas Fair & Lights Switch-On – Burton Joyce

    Click for More Information


    Ravenshead Christmas Lights Switch On – 5.00pm


    Woodborough Christmas Lights Switch On – Governor’s Field, 6.00pm


    Burton Joyce School Fair – Burton Joyce Primary School, 12.00pm – 3.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Christmas Fair – St.Pauls, Daybrook, 10.30am – 12.30pm


    Christmas Market – Four Bells Inn, Woodborough, 2.00pm – 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Indoor Christmas Market – The Beacon Hill, Carlton, 2.00pm – 5.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Christmas Market & Steam – Papplewick Pumping Station, 10:00am – 6.00pm

    December 2 & December 3

    Click for More information


    Christmas Market – Haywood Road Community Centre, 10.00am – 2.00pm


    Christmas Tales with The Woolly Tellers – Papplewick Pumping Station, 7.30pm

    Click for More Information


    Woodborough Art Group Winter Exhibition – The Institute, Roe Lane, Woodborough, 10.30am – 4.30pm

    December 2 & December 3 


    Indoor Christmas Market – Tree Tops, Mapperley, 10.00am – 2.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Toni P – The Inn for a Penny, Carlton, 9.00pm


    Mitch Tyler – Arnold Liberal Club

    Click for More Information


    Festive Disco – The Nags Head, Woodborough, 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Newstead Soul Club – Newstead Centre, 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Nikki Rogers – Top Spot, Carlton

    Click for More Information


    Chris Robin – Calverton Working Men’s Club, Calverton

    Click for More Information


    Sunday, December 3


    Portland Charity Christmas Market – Nottingham Road, Mansfield, 11.00am – 4.30pm

    With over 60 craft, gift, food and drink stalls taking over the Portland campus, it is a fantastic day out for the whole family.

    This year we have lots of exciting entertainment for the whole family; Santa’s Grotto, Portland Dog Show, Woodland Elf Hunt, musical entertainment and much more!

    ALSO: Join the Frozen Sisters or Aurora, Rapunzel & Belle in two entertainment sessions with live singing, dancing and lots of fun from our friends at Little Princess Parties.

    Click for More Information


    Calverton Christmas Fayre – Calverton Village Hall, 10.30am – 4.00pm


    The history of Christmas traditions by Bob Massey – The Bread & Bitter, Mapperley, 8.00pm


    Girls Night Out – Come & Sing – St.James Church, Porchester, 6.00pm

    Click for More Information


    EVENT CINEMA: André Rieu’s White Christmas – Bonington Cinema

    Sun 3 – Fri 8 Dec Various Dates & Times £12.50

    Click for More Information


    Artists Makers & Fine Foods Market – Ravenshead Village Hall, 10.00am – 3.00pm

    Click for More information


    The Dice Shakers – The Brickyard, Carlton, 4.00pm – 6.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Benjamin Ridley – Top Spot, Carlton

    Click for More Information


    Sunday Quiz Night – Larch Farm, Ravenshead

    Sunday & Wednesday evenings

    Click for More Information


    Sunday Quiz Night – Old Volunteer, Carlton

    Click for More Information


    Monday, December 4


    Monday Quiz Night – The Arrow, Arnold, 7.30pm

    Click for More Information


    Pub League Poker – The Brick Yard, Carlton

    Free pint to the winner of the night for season 2, along with the cash pot from player buy ins (£5 a head) and 100 points on the leaderboard.

    Click for More Information


    Monday Quiz Night – The Bread & Bitter, Mapperley

    Click for More Information


    Monday Quiz Night – Four Bells, Woodborough, 7.30pm

    Click for More Information


    Tuesday, December 5


    Pub Quiz – The Brickyard, Carlton

    Booking advised due to popularity of event.

    £2 buy in per person, £25 bar tab to be won and a rolling higher or lower jackpot

    Click for More Information


    Open Mic Night – Four Bells Inn, Woodborough


    Bike Night – The Gleaners, Calverton

    Click for More Information


    Wednesday, December 6


    Winter Wednesdays with Steve McGill – The Gedling Inn, 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Wednesday Quiz Night – Larch Farm, Ravenshead

    Wednesday & Sunday evenings

    Click for More Information


    Wednesday Quiz Night – Robin Hood & Little John, Arnold, 8.30pm

    Click for More Information


    Thursday, December 7


    Thursday Quiz Night – The Gleaners, Calverton, 8.30pm


    Jazz Steps: Luke Bacchus Quartet – Windrush Celebration – Bonington Theatre, 7.30pm

    £15pp

    Caribbean-influenced jazz originals from pianist & composer Luke Bacchus – with Marlon Hibbert on steel pans.  This young quartet’s passionate celebrates the immense musical heritage of the Windrush Generation.

    BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 finalist, pianist and composer Luke Bacchus is one of the most exciting emerging jazz musicians on the UK scene, as well as internationally – he played in the  Montreux Jazz Festival house band this summer.

    Click for More Information


    Motown & Northern Soul Themed Disco – Top Spot Club, Carlton, 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    Poker Night – The Abdication Micropub, 7.00pm – 9.30pm

    A friendly poker game – £3 for your chips. Winner wins the pot.
    Beginners welcome.

    Click for More Information


    Quiz Night – Sashas Bar, Arnold

    Click for More Information


    Thursday Quiz Night – The Vale Hotel, Woodthorpe, 8.00pm

    Weekly quiz night in support of local food bank.

    Click for More Information


    Thursday Quiz Night – Copper Mapperley, 7.00pm


    Thursday Quiz Night – Gedling Inn, Gedling, 8.00pm

    Click for More Information


    All listings correct at time of going to press

    Please contact venue to confirm availability and details


    A quick word from ‘This is Gedling’ Magazine who sponsor The Vibe

    Covering the whole of Gedlng borough ‘This is Gedling’ magazine is being distributed now – you can pick up a FREE copy at your local pub, club, venue, theatre, takeaway.

    This is Gedling is a Not for Profit (NfP) community initiative that depends on the support of advertisers, contributors, readers and donors to continue to bring FREE borough news and general interest content to the all 46 square miles and 120k residents of Gedling borough.

    If you fancy a digital read, want to advertise or make a donation just follow the following link: https://thisisgedling.co.uk/our-magazine/

    #thisisgedling #gedlingboroughlife

    You can also now support This is Gedling by entering the Gedling Lotto below:

    gedlinglotto.co.uk/support/this-is-gedling-free-hyperlocal-news-magazine

    There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

    You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

    Gedling Eye now publish the winning numbers each Saturday night.


    Smoke control areas – what you need to know

    In smoke control areas, you are restricted in the types of fuel you can burn and the appliances you can use to reduce air pollution. Here are the key points:

    1. You must use approved fuel

    Only smokeless fuels are permitted in smoke control areas. These include certain types of coal and wood products that have been treated to reduce their smoke emissions. Examples include anthracite coal, some low-smoke manufactured solid fuels, and seasoned wood with low moisture content, such as kiln dried logs.

    Kiln dried logs are beneficial, especially in smoke control areas, for several reasons:

    Lower Moisture Content: Kiln drying significantly reduces the moisture content of the logs, usually to below 20%. This is much lower than that of freshly cut wood, which can have a moisture content upwards of 50%. The lower the moisture content, the more efficiently the wood burns.

    Cleaner Burning: Because of their low moisture content, kiln dried logs burn more cleanly. They produce less smoke and fewer particulates compared to logs that haven’t been dried. This is particularly important in smoke control areas where reducing air pollution is a priority.

    Higher Heat Output: Kiln dried logs burn at a higher temperature due to their low moisture content. This means they produce more heat per log, making them more efficient as a heat source.

    Less Tar and Creosote Buildup: Burning wet or green wood can lead to a buildup of tar and creosote in the chimney, which are both fire hazards and can lead to inefficient stove operation. Kiln dried logs significantly reduce this risk because they burn more completely and cleanly.

    Easier to Light and Maintain: Due to their dryness, kiln dried logs are easier to light and maintain in a fire. They also tend to produce a more consistent burn, making them user-friendly, especially for those not as experienced with wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.

    Environmental Benefits: Efficient burning means less wood is needed to produce the same amount of heat, which can be better for the environment in terms of resource use.

    1. You must use an approved appliance

    You need to use an “exempt” appliance that is designed to burn smokeless fuels efficiently and with reduced emissions. These stoves and appliances are tested and approved for use in smoke control areas. They include certain models of wood-burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves, pellet stoves, and boilers. The appliance must be installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it operates within the legal limits for emissions.

    Having an approved appliance in a smoke control area is important for several reasons:

    Reduced Emissions: Approved appliances are designed to burn fuel more efficiently and cleanly, reducing the amount of smoke and harmful pollutants released into the air. This is crucial in smoke control areas, where the goal is to minimize air pollution and its associated health risks.

    Compliance with Regulations: In smoke control areas, using an approved appliance ensures compliance with local laws and regulations. Non-compliance, such as using non-approved stoves or burning unauthorized fuels, can result in substantial fines.

    Better Fuel Efficiency: These appliances often have better fuel efficiency, meaning they use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. This can be more economical in the long run and also reduces the overall consumption of fuel resources.

    Improved Air Quality: By reducing the emission of smoke and particulates, approved appliances contribute to improved air quality in the local environment. This is beneficial for public health, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.

    Enhanced Safety: Approved appliances are tested for safety standards, reducing the risk of fire hazards associated with inefficient or poorly designed stoves.

    Potential for Incentives: In some areas, using approved, environmentally-friendly appliances can qualify homeowners for incentives or grants, especially when replacing older, less efficient models.

    Overall, using an approved appliance in a smoke control area is a responsible choice that benefits both the environment and the health of the community, while also ensuring compliance with local regulations.

    3. Potential Fines: In Gedling, the rules and fines for smoke control areas are as follows:

    (a) Standard Fine for Emitting Smoke 

    The fine for emitting smoke in designated smoke control areas in Gedling is set at £1,000 for each offense.

    b) Initial and Repeat Offender Fines 

    Gedling Borough Council officers have the authority to issue a financial penalty ranging from £175 to £300 when they witness the emission of smoke from a chimney. This applies regardless of the appliance being used or the type of fuel. If offenders are found breaching these rules, an initial fine of £175 can be imposed, which increases to £300 for repeat offenders.

    (c) Reinforcement of Wood-Burning Rules 

    Additionally, there are new wood-burning rules that could lead to Gedling borough households facing a £1,000 fine. This is part of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Trading Standards Service’s effort to reinforce the ‘smoke controlled’ area guidelines.

    These rules and fines are in place to ensure compliance with smoke control regulations, aiming to reduce air pollution and protect public health in smoke control areas. It’s important for residents to be aware of these regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a cleaner environment.

    It’s always a good practice to consult with local authorities or check official government websites for the most up-to-date and specific information regarding smoke control areas in your location.

    Tesco is giving free £250 to shoppers for Christmas from now until December 17

    Tesco is giving away a whopping £1million worth of gift cards to lucky shoppers this festive season. Through its ‘Win your Christmas Shop’ prize draws, customers have the chance to win themselves a £250 gift voucher, and a £250 gift card for a friend, family member or charity.

    The prize draws run from November 28 until December 17.

    The giveaway is available exclusively for Tesco Clubcard members. Shoppers will have three chances to win, with one entry permitted each week over the three-week period. Tesco’s competition is open now at the retailer’s dedicated website. One entry permitted each week over the three-week period.

    The announcement comes after shoppers are reminded to spend their Clubcard vouchers before the end of November. The supermarket has said more than £16million worth of Clubcard vouchers will no longer be available to use after the end of November. The vouchers, which were first issued back in November 2021, are redeemable until then.

    Emma Botton, Tesco Group Customer Director, said: “We want to help customers’ household budgets stretch further right now and Clubcard is the best way to get great value with Tesco. With more than £16m worth of Clubcard vouchers due to expire at the end of November, we’re reminding customers to spend them now – or even use them to get ahead with some early Christmas shopping.”

    For more information, take a look at Tesco’s FAQs: tesco.com/clubcard/help/faqs