Police issue warning to motorists

POLICE are warning users of takeaway restaurants and shops in Market Place in Halesworth to stop leaving their motor vehicle engines running whilst parked in the area.

POLICE are warning users of takeaway restaurants and shops in Market Place in Halesworth to stop leaving their motor vehicle engines running whilst parked in the area.

Residents have complained to officers of the Southwold and Halesworth Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) about the noise and disturbance the problem causes. The SNT is now requesting motorists to be more aware of the noise and nuisance it is causing residents. Motorists are leaving their vehicles running whilst they pop into the shops or wait for their takeaway food to be cooked.

Officers are currently aiming to educate drivers at this stage but if problems persist they will be looking to enforce. They are taking the opportunity to remind drivers that it is an offence to quit a motor vehicle whilst the engine is left running and offenders will be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of �30.

Sergeant Lee Cudmore of Southwold and Halesworth SNT said: 'This is an issue that is affecting the local residents and is something that can be resolved very easily. We are asking people who use the Market Place to consider those who live in the area. This is an issue that we would like resolved especially as the summer period approaches. The last thing they want is fumes and noise pollution from engines and car stereos entering their properties.

'There is also a danger to those who use the area. For example a vehicle left in this condition is vulnerable to rolling away and injuring a person. It also increases the chance of theft from or theft of the motor vehicle itself. It is therefore in everyone's best interest to make sure that if you leave your vehicle then turn off the engine and lock it.'