Drivers face fines over idling engines

North Lincolnshire Council said it was launching the crackdown to improve air quality and has dispatched officers to look for anyone who leaves an engine idling without good reason.

Offenders will be warned initially and then handed a 20 fixed penalty notice if they fail to comply. Fines will increase to 40 if not settled within 28 days.

The council said it was not looking for people who left engines running for a few seconds, but “more serious offenders”, such as those who failed to switch off while unloading.

However, the authority said it was willing to make exceptions to the rule in some circumstances.