RAC responds to NICE no-idling recommendation

Commenting on news that NICE is to advocate no-idling zones, RAC roads policy spokesman Nick Lyes said: 

“We welcome the principle of no-idling zones, especially outside schools, hospitals and care homes. No-one should have to suffer dirty air as a result of a driver leaving their engine on unnecessarily. Sadly, many drivers don’t realise the harm they are causing by doing this.

“Schools should work closely with local authorities to first encourage parents to switch their engines off. It’s right that those that then persist in leaving them on should be subject to a charge.

“While it is going to take a combination of different actions to rid our towns and cities of dirty air, introducing no-idling zones is one simple step that we can do now that can lead to cleaner air for all of us.

“Other actions, such as encouraging a smoother flow of vehicles by optimising the phasing of traffic lights and replacing speed humps with speed cushions, can also go a long way in tackling Britain’s air pollution problem.”

Press office team

Press office team

For journalist enquiries only

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
The RAC extends long-standing partnership with LKQ Euro Car Parts to keep motorists moving
LKQ Euro Car Parts, the UK's leading distributor of automotive parts to the independent aftermarket, has extended its partnership with the RAC to continue as the first-line supplier of batteries and parts to the driving services group.
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Drivers urged to shop around as fuel prices continue to rise
As the latest RAC Fuel Watch data is released, RAC head of policy said:
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Potholes hidden in puddles wreak havoc with drivers in wet start to 2026
RAC records an average of 225 ‘pothole’ mentions a day in February from broken-down members – up from 66-a-day a year ago
media.rac.co.uk

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic British driving services brand and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted names, providing complete peace of mind ® to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

Contact

media.rac.co.uk