After sustained pressure from rural communities and political opposition the SNP have announced a temporary u-turn on the banning of wood-burning stoves.

The decision to ban the use of wood burners within new builds was put into effect on April 1 but faced immediate criticism from Conservative MPs, highlighting the benefit of log burners on those exposed to extreme weather conditions in rural communities.

The legislation, that was strongly supported by Scottish Greens leader Patrick Harvie, allowed for the use of log burners within pre-existing property but prevented the use of log burners within any new or future building projects.

MORE NEWS | The importance of future support for farmers and crofters

MORE NEWS | Report highlights shortages of key food system professionals

This regulation employed “banning the use of polluting heating systems such as oil and gas boilers, and bioenergy – including wood-burning stoves” in new buildings.

Following the original implementation of the legislation many rural dwellers were left puzzled as to whether the ban included wood-burners that were already present in homes and Kate Forbes, MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, called for government clarification.

The confusion was cleared by a government spokesperson who stated: “Existing homes are completely unaffected as the standard will not apply to the installation of heating in homes and buildings built before 2024. Wood-burning stoves and other heating systems that cause emissions can also still be installed in new homes to provide emergency heating, where a need can be justified.”

However, objection to the new legislation remained with residents of rural areas left dismayed by the prevention of installing wood-burners, once seen as a sustainable heating source, within renovations or new builds at a time where heating prices were climbing.

Minister for climate action Alasdair Allan announced to Scotland’s local authorities on Thursday September 19 that the ban would temporarily be lifted, however, no time scale was disclosed. In his letter he outlined a plan that 'temporarily disapplies the requirement for the installation of zero direct emissions heating systems to enable applicants to install a bioenergy or peat heating system or appliance', such as wood-burners.

Scottish Conservative shadow rural affairs secretary Rachel Hamilton said: “The SNP’s long overdue u-turn was a victory for the Scottish Conservatives and for common sense. Woodburning stoves are a lifeline for those living in rural and remote communities, especially in periods of extreme weather.

“We worked closely with the industry and rural Scotland to hear about the deeply damaging impact this would have on them and repeatedly challenged SNP ministers to reverse their policy. It is now time for them to do the right thing and ensure this temporary lifting of the ban is made permanent.”

When asked about a possible removal of the ban entirely First Minister John Swinney chose not to confirm when questioned by Hamilton at FMQs.