MANY residents near the places where buses turn round at the Angel, Archway, Holloway and elsewhere are driven near to distraction by the low rumble of bus engines left on.

MANY residents near the places where buses turn round at the Angel, Archway, Holloway and elsewhere are driven near to distraction by the low rumble of bus engines left on.

This practice is contrary to Transport for London's contracts with the bus companies.

The totally inadequate response from Islington Council is a letter to the bus companies, which alleviates the problem for a few days before it starts again.

There is an alternative that works. Croydon Council has used powers under the Environment Act 2005 to fine drivers who leave their engines running.

It has been very effective in stopping the problem.

Islington Council has refused to adopt this method but it is my belief that it should think again.

Not only could they use these powers against bus drivers who leave their engines running - but also against the limousine drivers who wait on double yellow lines for the end of Arsenal games and think they are immune to parking regulations by sitting in the car with the engines running.

Both the buses and the limousines are, of course, contributing to the pollution of the air in Islington. - Barry Edwards, Labour councillor for Holloway Ward, Paradise Passage, N7.