MOTORISTS in Dunbar who leave their vehicle engines running could be hit in the pocket.

Complaints have been passed to East Lothian Council about drivers leaving their vehicles’ engines on while stationary outside the town’s railway station and on High Street.

Now patrols are to be carried out by the local authority, with drivers caught idling facing a £20 fixed penalty if they do not switch-off.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “East Lothian Council is part of the East Central Scotland Vehicle Emission Partnership, which brings together a number of authorities [Midlothian, West Lothian, Falkirk and Stirling Councils].

“The partnership provides information and advice and can also investigate complaints about idling engines.

“The partnership has received a number of complaints regarding the area surrounding Dunbar station.

“Signage is being installed there advising drivers to switch off their engines.

“Additionally the partnership has powers to issue fixed penalty notices if drivers refuse to switch-off in areas that have been identified as hot spots.”

Certain criteria must be met before the fine can be issued, with the legislation not applying to a vehicle which is stopped at traffic lights or moving slowly due to road works or congestion or if the windscreen was being defrosted.

Potential hotspot areas can be reported by phoning Public Protection team on 01620 827365.