Berkshire MP visits Silchester store to discuss air quality

Olivia Bailey visited Bonfire Fireplaces & Stoves in Silchester <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Olivia Bailey visited Bonfire Fireplaces & Stoves in Silchester (Image: Supplied)
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A local MP has visited a Berkshire showroom to discuss wood burning and air quality.

Olivia Bailey, representing Reading West and Mid Berkshire, visited Bonfire Fireplaces & Stoves in Silchester.

She met with the company's managing director, Marc Barlow, following their correspondence about emissions, efficiency, and the government's Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP25).

During the visit, Ms Bailey learned about the operation of modern wood-burning stoves and their installation process.

The discussions centred on the differences between open fires, older stoves, and modern Ecodesign appliances, particularly regarding particulate emissions (PM2.5), efficiency, and real-world use in UK homes.

Emissions data were also discussed, highlighting that modern Ecodesign stoves are designed to produce significantly lower particulate emissions than traditional open fires.

Mr Barlow said: "It was a valuable opportunity to explain how modern stove technology has developed, and how correct installation and fuel use play an important role in reducing emissions."

Bonfire Fireplaces & Stoves serves Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and London.

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