NEW building regulations which will cut the cost of fuel bills in many homes in Pendle have been welcomed as an additional boost to the council's Affordable Warmth Strategy.

But people who do not comply with the rules have been warned they could face a fine of up to £5,000.

The purpose of the regulations, which are being introduced nationally from April 1, 2002, is to reduce energy consumption, in gas, electricity, solid fuel and oil, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

This will mean that for the first time locally anyone wishing to replace the windows and doors in their houses will be required to submit a Building Notice to the council, giving details of the proposal, and the windows and doors will need to comply with the new Building Regulations.

Failure to submit a notice to the council or failure to comply with the new regulations will become a criminal offence with the fines of up to £5,000 upon conviction.

Jim Cooper, Pendle Council's principal building control officer, said: "The regulations will affect the home owner, window manufacturer and the installer. The double-glazing in the units will need to be specially coated to meet the new regulations for thermal insulation.

"There is likely to be an increase in costs due to the improved materials needed. The charges to be made by the council for the applications and inspections have still to be decided."

Special arrangements have been included to deal with windows in historic buildings requiring replacement and the new rules will also control replacement central heating boilers, water heaters and storage cylinders, which must be energy efficient types.