The Government has set its sights on toughening up rules on vehicle idling, with heavier fines for drivers who leave their engine running while parked.
Idling is when a vehicle’s engine is left running while it is stationary for a period of time – increasing use of fuel, emissions and noise levels.
The DfT says vehicle idling is a major factor in poor air quality, particularly in areas where there are large numbers of stationary vehicles.
The new plans – which would represent the biggest change to the rules since 2002 – will also provide guidance to local authorities on their anti-idling powers, enabling them to enforce the law more effectively.
It is hoped the move will reduce ‘unnecessary air pollution’ outside schools, taxi ranks and bus stations.
Chris Grayling, transport secretary, said: “We are determined to crack down on drivers who pollute our communities by leaving their engines running, particularly outside school gates where our children are breathing in this toxic air.
“Putting a stop to idling is an easy way to drive down dangerously high levels of pollution, reducing its impact on the environment and our health.”
The Government plans will be put out for consultation later this year.
If idling is unnecessary air pollution driving around is necessary air pollution?
However they have missed an important point. Idling is throwing money down the drain by using fuel unnecessarily. Companies with fleets need to address this with their drivers as a cost saving and private drivers need to understand the impact in their pockets as well as the environment. Fleet managers have systems in place to record mileage and fuel consumption and could give bonuses for better figures so there would be an incentive for not idling. Private drivers are quick to complain when fuel prices go up but do not practice green driving. I would love to see a visual of coins and notes going into fuel tanks from petrol station pumps and then floating out of exhaust pipes. People might get the message when they see the impact on their wallets and purses.
Peter Wilson, Chichester
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