Fine possible for waiting traffic

Wardens could ask drivers with idling engines to switch them off

Drivers who leave their engines running in traffic queues or by the side of the road could face a £20 fine under a scheme being discussed in West Sussex.

Traffic wardens could be asking drivers to switch off their engines in two areas of Shoreham from next January.

They may also get the power to impose fines if the scheme is successful and is rolled out elsewhere in the county.

"This is about improving air quality and saving the planet and people's health," said spokesman Tony Toynton.

The possible trial coincides with the start of a new parking scheme in Shoreham patrolled by uniformed wardens.

Level crossing

The High Street and A270, where it would apply, are already air quality management areas.

Mr Toynton said if the scheme was approved, wardens would ask people whose engines were idling, for example on the school run or at a level crossing, to turn them off.

There were no plans to introduce fines for people who do not comply, but the county council had the power to do so in future.

"We all know emissions cause asthma and health problems, particularly for elderly people and the young and vulnerable," said Mr Toynton.

"We thought it was a really good idea to give this a go for a period of time, get the results and analyse them, then make a decision about whether we roll it out further."

Council leader Henry Smith said: "This is only an idea which is under consideration for piloting.

"Whilst I think it is absolutely right to remind motorists that switching off their engines when having to wait at a level crossing is both better for the environment and saves precious fuel, authorities should be appealing to people's better nature rather than penalising them with fines.

"I will be writing to Network Rail to ask that the length of time that motorists have to wait at crossings is reduced."