Anti-idling fines could be introduced in Kent
New powers are to be considered to tackle pollution
Thanet District Council is considering fining drivers if they allow their engines to run unnecessarily.
The local authority will debate whether to issue fixed penalty notices for drivers at a meeting this evening.
They say it's in a bid to tackle air pollution and could see motorists hit with a £20 fine.
If approved, fines would be introduced around schools and within Air Quality Management Areas.
The council said it wants to focus its approach on education and raising public awareness, rather than enforcement.
But where advice has been ignored, officers could issue an FPN of £20, rising to £40 if not paid within 28 days.
"The morning rush hour is of particular concern"
Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr Heather Keen, said: “The council is committed to doing what we can to protect our environment.
"Although we’re fortunate that Thanet has good air quality, at peak times when traffic builds up, so does associated pollution from burning fossil fuels.
"The morning rush hour is of particular concern as children are exposed to roadside pollutants on their way to school."
Leaving engines to idle burns climate changing fossil fuels, it also produces nitrogen dioxide and fine particles.
She also highlighted how it is exposing children with asthma and older people with respiratory conditions to the harmful effects of pollution.