THE BIG ISSUE ‘Let’s not sit idly by’
SCHOOL-RUN parents could face £60 fines – for leaving their engines running. Cheshire East Council is considering issuing the penalties in the latest crackdown on emissions.
More than 30 local authorities have so far adopted so-called antiidling enforcement legislation, although very few issue fines.
Members of the council’s highways and transport committee were due to discuss the issue at a meeting yesterday.
But the committee were recommended to continue with its current approach of educating
drivers –rather than adopting the legislation and issuing fines.
An enforcement officer can only issue a fine when a driver is asked, and then refuses, to turn off their engine.
Cheshire East has 12 air quality monitoring zones where nitrogen dioxide levels have been too high.
The council report states: “The number of air quality management areas has reduced across the borough, suggesting that campaigns are effective and
progressively changing driver behaviours. “Additionally, funding is available from central government to support promotion/ education campaigns, which means these campaigns can continue in the future.”
The council campaigns particularly target schools, buses and taxis. A survey across 18 schools found 15 cases of ‘engine idling’ across eight schools.
The RAC backs fines for motorists who keep their engine running. Head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: “Whether it is outside schools, picking up relatives from stations, or in a car park, we can all do our bit by switching off our engines and reducing our emissions.
“Drivers with stop-start technology should also ensure it is engaged, which will reduce pollution when waiting at red traffic lights.”
Mr Lyes added: “We would support authorities that visibly encourage people to stop engine idling and for those drivers who refuse, we feel a fine is a proportionate response.”