Response details:
Dear Cllr Stephanos Ioannou,
Thank you for raising concerns about vehicle idling on Mayfair Terrace, particularly near West Grove Primary School during drop-off and pick-up times.
We recognise that engine idling can contribute to poor air quality and can be particularly concerning near schools, where children and families are present. Reducing unnecessary idling is an important part of improving the local environment and supporting healthier school journeys.
While it is already an offence for a driver to leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while stationary, we will review the location and consider appropriate action. This may include engagement with the school, targeted awareness activity during peak times and reviewing whether additional no idling signage would be beneficial.
Experience shows that installing signage alone is unlikely to lead to a sustained change in driver behaviour, particularly in quieter residential streets.
It is worth noting that while signage can help reinforce the message, behavioural change is often most effective when supported by engagement and awareness campaigns. We will therefore consider the most proportionate and effective approach for this location.
Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.
Best Regards
Communications officer
Original enquiry description:
Apparently on Mayfair Terrace in Southgate near West Grove School there is an increase in the number of cars that are idling as a direct result of school pickup and drop off times. Can this please be investigated? Maybe there can be some no idling signs? This would be helpful. Thanks