DRIVERS could now face up to a £150 fine for leaving their car engine running for a long period of time.

The Welsh Government announced that drivers who leave their engines running (Idling) while parked may face more than a triple increase in fines.

This crack down is being implemented to help tackle air pollution and protect public health as it releases toxic fumes which worsen air quality.

The fine for leaving a vehicle engine running while parked will now rise from £20 to between £75 and £150 from September 30.

The change aims to protect public health by reducing air pollution which contributes to heart and lung disease.

This offence is under Rule 123 of the Highway Code where drivers shouldn’t be leaving cars running or leave a vehicle engine running unnecessary while the vehicle is stationary on a public road.

Despite the fine increasing, some people were still unaware this was an offence. It poses danger as it creates air and noise pollution which contributes to health problems, including heart and lung disease which particularly impacts those who are vulnerable to its effects.

Switching off an engine can reduce the harmful impact it creates and the toxic chemicals imposed into the atmosphere.