The measures are highlighted in the Government's air pollution strategy which could see all cars that do not comply with the latest Euro 6 emissions standard face charges.

However, ministers have made clear that councils must consider all alternatives to pollution taxes before proposing a charging scheme.

Officials say that charging is likely to have the "greatest impact" in bringing down emissions to safe levels.

It recommends that councils should pursue "alternative" approaches such as improving the flow of traffic by removing speed humps and improving the "sequencing" of traffic lights.

The Government has also announced a consultation on plans for a "targeted" diesel scrappage scheme and grants to "retrofit" older vehicles to reduce the level of emissions.

Ministers have identified 40 local authorities where the level of diesel emissions currently exceeds European standards, but have not identified which of them will have to take additional measures.