Drivers who leave their engines running whilst parked could receive instant fines under new proposals which are being considered by the government to give local authorities more power to reduce pollution.
The environmental secretary Michael Gove said that instant fines for repeat offenders should be considered but warned that any new powers should be used proportionately by councils.
The fines could range from £20 to £80 under existing regulations. Westminster city council has issued 39 penalty charge notices for unnecessary engine idling since 2017.
“We need to change the way people think about engine idling,” said Westminster council leader Nickie Aiken
He added: “Having spoken to more than 20,000 drivers so far, our air quality marshals found that most who idle, do so out of habit. Once they know the damage it causes, including the health risks, and they’re asked to switch off the engine, they do so and think twice before idling again. Fines should be a last resort – we prefer to ask nicely.”
According to Westminster council, an idling car produces enough exhaust emissions to fill 150 balloons a minute.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “We are determined to reduce the damaging environmental impacts of drivers who keep their engines running while stationary, especially those in school zones.
“This is why we are making guidance for local authorities clearer, so that they know how and when to target drivers falling foul of the law. We will also be polling local authorities to understand how any potential review of these powers may look in future.”
