Government launches online noise maps

Defra hopes they will be the first step to reducing urban noise pollution

The maps will track railway noise

The government has launched a new web site that will show levels of noise pollution around the country.

The maps – which detail environmental noise from major industries, road and rail networks in 23 urban areas in England - will be used to draw up action plans to reduce noise levels.

Environment Minister Jonathan Shaw said the move was the first step towards tackling urban noise pollution.

"We will use them to draw up action plans to reduce noise where practical from major roads and railways, as well as from urban areas," he said. "The plans will include measures to protect designated quiet areas from any increase in noise."

The site includes information on the number of people exposed to noise pollution.
The plan is required of government under the EU Environmental Noise Directive.

The next stage of the Department's work to implement the directive will be to develop action plans to reduce noise. This will include a public consultation.

The maps are available at www.defra.gov.uk/noisemapping.