Some homeowners have been instructed by councils to remove their air conditioning units due to concerns over climate impact. Planning officers are advising that these units release excessive carbon dioxide and should only be utilized as a last resort, such as when alternative cooling methods like opening windows prove ineffective.
This directive follows a record high temperature of 36.7 degrees Celsius recorded in Merryfield, Somerset, during June. Reports from The Telegraph highlight a case in North London where a resident was compelled to uninstall two air-con units from their property.
In an appeal, a resident was advised to rely on natural cooling methods by opening windows and balcony doors to lower the temperature in their first-floor flat. While most homes in the UK do not require planning permission for air conditioning installation, exceptions apply to flats and listed buildings, with less than 5% of UK households estimated to have air conditioning.
Another resident was initially asked to remove three air con units but successfully appealed the decision due to the property’s eco-friendly upgrades like solar panels. A spokesperson from Camden council emphasized the prioritization of energy-efficient cooling methods in planning policies.
Enforcement actions against air conditioning units are rare and considered a final resort when residents fail to adhere to climate-friendly guidelines and noise regulations. The trend of restricting air con installations extends to other London councils, as noted by The Telegraph.
The Mayor of London’s office clarified that local planning decisions are managed by individual boroughs with policies focused on mitigating overheating risks through shading, ventilation, and other cooling design features in new developments. These measures aim to maintain comfortable living conditions while reducing energy consumption and associated costs.
The government confirmed that air conditioning units are not prohibited and can be installed in both existing and new homes. Authorities expect councils to adopt a pragmatic approach to regulations, balancing community interests and environmental concerns.