Data shows particle pollution almost doubles during winter months

We’re asking residents to think twice before lighting their fires and wood-burning stoves.

Data from air quality sensors across Brighton & Hove showed dramatic increases in harmful particle pollution last winter.

A year’s worth of readings from the Brighton & Hove and Sussex Real-Time Air Quality Portal, launched in 2024, showed that PM2.5 pollution was 91% higher during the winter months compared with the summer.

The data comes as we relaunch our public awareness campaign highlighting the harm caused by people using wood burners and open fires, a major contributor of PM2.5 - fine particles (more than 20 times thinner than a human hair) that, once inhaled, can enter the bloodstream and be transported around the body.

Readings also show there were 40 days between November 2024 and April 2025 when PM2.5 levels in the city exceeded recommended maximum levels and that particle pollution was 78% higher near 4 city primary schools in the winter months compared with the summer.

More information about burning solid fuels can be found on our website.

Health risks

Councillor Tim Rowkins, Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Net Zero & Environmental Services, said: “In 2024, we launched the largest real-time air quality monitoring network in the country so that we could build a more detailed picture of the causes of poor air quality across the city.

“The data shows very clearly that particle pollution levels almost doubled during the winter months, when we know many people use open fires and wood-burning stoves.

“Wood-burners in particular have soared in popularity in recent years, not as a primary heat source but as a luxury. Our campaign is highlighting the damaging impact particle pollution coming from wood burners and open fires is having on our heath.

“I’d urge residents with fireplaces and wood-burners to think about the risks to themselves and others before using them this winter.”

Smoke Control Areas

In September, the Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed the possible expansion of the city’s Smoke Control Areas (SCAs), in which emitting visible smoke from a building chimney is an offence.

For persistent cases the council has powers to issue warning notices and a fine of up to £300. However, in 2024/25 the approach has been to educate and inform rather than issue fines.

Brighton & Hove currently has 5 SCAs covering much of Hanover, Lewes Road, Bevendean and the city centre. These were introduced by Brighton Council in the 70s, but there are no such areas in Hove. Our data shows that the problem is just as significant in areas not covered by the existing SCAs.