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PLANS have been put forward to fine motorists who leave their engines on when stationary in Sefton.
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) is seeking authorisation for plans to hand drivers on-the -spot fines of up to £40 if they do not switch off their vehicle when stood still for more than a couple of minutes.
The move comes after the EPD received complaints about stationary cars being left with their engines running while waiting at level crossing barriers, as well as waiting for buses and delivery vehicles to move on.
In particular, numerous complaints about bus drivers leaving engines on for up to 30 minutes have been received and members of the public brought up the issue during a recent consultation process.
The EPD argue that the running of engines while a vehicle is not moving is an “inefficient use of fuel” and results in the release of gases that have “negative effect on both climate change and public health”.
It is proposed that a “Stationary Idling Offence” be put in place to apply to areas throughout Sefton.
