Drivers in Carlisle could be fined £20 if they refuse to switch off their vehicle’s engine in a move aimed at improving air quality.
From next month Carlisle City Council will fine drivers £20 if they refuse a request from a council enforcement officer to switch off their engine when requested.
The council says it wants to see a positive change in behaviour in some drivers, particularly those parked in the city centre or outside of schools.
Carlisle City Council says it hopes the move will improve air quality in the city centre and reduce carbon emissions.
“The new enforcement is being brought in as part of our commitment to tackling climate change, improving local air quality and reducing health risks from fumes,” said Nigel Christian, portfolio holder for environment and transport.
“We urge drivers to think of others, especially when they are parked outside schools and other similar sites. Switching off an engine when stationary makes a big difference and will reduce carbon emissions.
“This enforcement, alongside our investment in a new fleet of 100 per cent electric vehicles, shows our commitment to our local environment.”
The fines were introduced to support local air quality management and the achievement of the National Air Quality Strategy objectives.
The regulations allow local authorities to issue fixed penalty notices to motorists where they are unnecessarily running their vehicle engines while stationary
