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June 2008 headlines (issue 23)

Scotland springs into action
Scotland has outlined its draft noise action plans.

English noise maps finally published
Defra has completed its noise maps covering road, rail, air and industrial noise in England.
l The maps are available on the Defra website at: www.defra.gov.uk/noisemapping

Brum maps updated
The Birmingham Updated noise Mapping Project (BUMP) team has finalised its maps which include road, rail, air and consolidated noise sources – and quiet areas.
 

News from the IoA’s Spring Conference held in Reading

Soundscape monitor developed
A device is being developed that attempts to be able to home in on specific noise to aid noise enforcement and planning.

Air noise set to grow, says Mitchell
ERM’s Steve Mitchell told the IoA spring conference that noise from aircraft is set to increase.

Rooftop turbine no nuisance
Large rooftop turbines are unlikely to cause a nuisance based on monitoring of a turbine in south London.

Proceedings from the IoA spring conference 2008 Widening horizons in acoustics are available from Linda Canty, IoA, 01727 848195

Hinton to lead IoA
Noise mapping guru John Hinton of Birmingham City Council is taking over as president of the Institute of Acoustics.

Court challenge fails
A group of councils have failed to secure a judicial review to cut the number of aircraft allowed to arrive at Heathrow before 6am.
l www.2MGroup.org.uk

Label proposed to cut tyre noise
The European Commission is set to propose new noise and energy efficiency standards for tyres but with a blanket exemption for the largest 4x4s, according to draft rules seen by European pressure group Transport and Environment (T&E). The group is attempting to include noise in a noise label for tyres.
l T&E website www.transportenvironment.org

Brigade wins night delivery endorsement
Brigade Electronics has received one of the first Noise Abatement Society-Piek certificates to be awarded for their reversing alarms which assist quiet night time deliveries.
l www.reverseinsafety.co.uk

Noise Action Week sends the message
A survey carried out to support Noise Action Week has highlighted annoying street sounds.

IoA seeks publicity makers
The European Commission is set to propose new noise and energy efficiency standards for tyres but with a blanket exemption for the largest 4x4s, according to draft rules seen by European pressure group Transport and Environment (T&E). The group is attempting to include noise in a noise label for tyres.
l T&E website www.transportenvironment.org

German speed cut
Germany’s city-state of Bremen announced last month that its 60 kilometres of motorway will have a blanket 120 km/h speed limit (80mph).

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May 2008 headlines (issue 22)

Weedon quits over delays
Delays to development of UK noise policy has pushed prominent noise campaigner Val Weedon to quit.

Councils told not to overdeclare tranquillity
News of Weedon’s departure (above) emerged at the recent Quiet Conference opened by presenter Jonathan Dimbleby.
Minister Jonathan Shaw warned local authorities (who have input into quiet areas): “Any inappropriate adoption of a tranquillity indicator to prevent new development and activities must be looked at very carefully.”

Epuk loses patience
Epuk (formerly the NSCA) has written to noise minister Jonathan Shaw seeking a date for the completion of the national noise strategy. The strategy has been much delayed

Westminster plans own strategy
Westminster City Council is developing its own noise strategy.

London Underground loses PA battle
London Underground has been saddled with costs of £115,000 after it abandoned its appeal against an abatement notice.

Local authorities poised for action week
Noise Action Week is looming – 19th-23rd May – and the event’s organiser Epuk says the event will once again provide the opportunity to give noise a proper hearing at local level.
l www.noiseactionweek.org.uk

Bristol latest to go online...
Bristol has published an interactive noise map online. It has been developing its noise map over the past few months but has now added the clickable map to its website.
l http://maps.bristol.gov.uk/noisemap/viewer.htm

... as London maps pulled
London noise maps, produced nearly four years ago, have been pulled off the web.

Guidance and device approval for premises
Defra has issued guidance to English local authorities on the new night noise powers available for dwellings and licensed premises which exceed the “permitted level” of noise prescribed under the Noise Act 1996 as amended by the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005.
l Guidance to local authorities in England – Noise Act offence for licensed premises and Measuring devices (Noise Act 1996) (England) Approval 2008 and permitted level of noise (England) directions 2008 can be viewed on www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/noiseact.htm

Anase: ‘Shambles’
The local authority Strategic Aviation Special Interest Group (Sasig) has described the Anase study as “a shambles”.

Europe seeks help
Europe is seeking a consultant through the European Journal to help it review the noise directive 2002/49/EC.

Mapping equivalence
The European Commission has proposed a series of protocols to allow member states to test whether the mapping systems they are using can demonstrate equivalence.
l http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/env/noisedir/home

Ecotowns quiet?
A consultation on Ecotowns does not mention noise.
l Eco-towns: Living a greener future – consultation paper
www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/ecotownsgreenerfuture

BV props up Defra
Bureau Veritas has been re-appointed by Defra for the provision of acoustic advisory services to their noise and nuisance team.

Inaudibility: is it possible?
Is it reasonable to combine the buzz of city centre living with isolation from the entertainment noise around? Lisa Russell reports

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April 2008 headlines (issue 21)

Europe frees UK map data
While Defra is still holding back from publishing its noise maps, the data that will be used to produce the maps can now be obtained from Brussels. The maps can be downloaded from http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/env/d_2002_49/library?l=/strategic_december/uk_united_kingdom&vm=detailed&sb=Title

Actions plans due this summer, says Defra
Action plans should be complete by July 2008, Defra’s Wendy Hartnell told the recent EPUK spring workshop.

Snetterton silenced?
A council in Norfolk has dropped legal action against Snetterton motor racing circuit in return for a best practice pledge on noise from the circuit owner.

Turbine turmoil (nearly) resolved
Gordon Brown’s Budget has resolved some of the prolonged uncertainty on noise output of English domestic wind turbines. Turbines in gardens and on detached houses will not have to apply for planning permission provided they conform to agreed standards.
l BWEA Small Wind Turbine Performance and Safety Standard can be viewed on www.bwea.com

Highways Agency lists actions
Highways Agency noise specialist Pam Lowery updated delegates at the Institute of Acoustics transportation noise meeting held in Birmingham last month.

McKell still struggles with TAG
Hamilton and McGregor boss Bernadette McKell repeated concerns she had about the recent changes to English Transport Assessment Guidance.

Birmingham uses maps to identify hotspots
Birmingham’s head-start on noise mapping and action planning has hit problems due to funding.

Smoking noise
Bristol City Council has put figures on the increase in complaints prompted by the smoking ban introduced into England last year. Pop code revamp Howard Price of the CIEH reported progress to the EPUK workshop on the update of the ‘pop code’.

More rate cuts?
An MP has questioned the Government on whether increases in aircraft noise can prompt revaluation of rates as has been agreed for road noise in Manchester.

Faber expands
Pierre Klemas has joined Faber Maunsell’s acoustics group at a new base in central London alongside Nigel Burton. The firm already has acoustic teams in Altrincham, Beckenham and St Albans.

UK highways authorities not as sympathetic to noise curbs
Bristol City Council’s Steve Crawshaw updated delegates at EPUK’s recent spring noise workshop held in Warwick on progress with the city’s noise maps and action planning. The city is one of the few to have carried out noise and air quality mapping with a view to taking action.

Maidstone wishes
As part of its air quality action plan, Maidstone Borough Council has asked the Highways Agency to introduce speed limits on the M20 motorway. The Agency is thinking of installing variable message signs on the motorway which could be used to cut speeds and resulting noise.

UK follows European lead
European experts gathered at last month’s Noise in the City conference held in Amsterdam.

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March 2008 headlines (issue 20)

Defra trumped on turbines
It is appearing increasingly likely that Defra has been overruled by Dberr (formerly DTi) on noise limits for domestic wind turbines.
l www.warwickwindtrials.org.uk

Pub fixed penalty rules now in
Legislation has finally come into force aimed at reducing night-time noise from pubs and clubs.

Road traffic increase leads to rating cut
Government is appealing against a High Court endorsement of a tribunal’s decision to allow a reduction in council tax for homeowners living near busy roads.

Blobs and slugs for Scotland
Progress on Scottish action planning was revealed at the EPUK Scotland (formerly NSCA) conference held in Glasgow last month.

Tone finder from B&K
Local authorities and acoustic consultants may save time and money spent investigating the existence of elusive tonal noises with Brüel & Kjær’s new tone assessment tool.
l www.bksv.co.uk

Yet more delay for strategy
The Government has now admitted to further delays for the noise strategy.

Finnish Government adopts noise strategy
Finland has adopted a noise strategy that includes fixed targets in noise reduction.

London Assembly probes noisy boom cars
A survey carried out to support a probe by the London Assembly into loud car stereos confirms they are a nuisance.
l Booming and fuming: Noise nuisance from car stereos and mini-motorbikes, is available at: www.london.gov.uk/assembly/reports/environment.jsp-booming

Wind farms: An EHO’s tale
Speaking at the recent Institute of Acoustics meeting on wind turbine noise held in Northern Ireland, an environmental health officer recounted problems with wind farm applications.

‘Conservatism’ can cost 40% of output
Cumulative conservatism in noise prediction can cost wind farm developers up to 40% of their potential power output, Andrew Bullimore of Hoare Lea Acoustics told the Armagh IoA conference.

Terrain key to turbine annoyance?
Swedish researchers have studied wind turbine annoyance and found that the local environment and terrain are key factors in annoyance.
l Wind turbine noise, annoyance and self reported health and well being in different living environments, Eja Pedersen et al, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Vol. 64 pp480-486.

24hr licensing reviewed
The government has published its review of 24hr licensing.
l www.culture.gov.uk

No change for temporary event notices
Government has told Parliament that it sees no reason to change the system for temporary event notices (TENs).

Government pushes for live music
The Government has pledged half a million pounds to boost live music at small venues.

Heathrow criticism flies in
Responses to plans to expand Heathrow have now been submitted. Many are critical of noise impacts.

EU airport review
The EU has published a report on the impact of its airport noise directive passed in 2002.
l Noise operation restrictions at EU airports (report on the application of Directive 2002/30/EC) can be viewed on http://eur-lex.europa.eu/lexuriServ/lexuriServ.do?uri=com:2008:0066:fin:en:pdf

Heathrow economic benefits ‘negligible’
A report has undermined Government claims on economic benefits of further Heathrow expansion.
l The report on the economics of Heathrow expansion can be viewed on the HACAN website www.hacan.org.uk

Expansion unwelcome
Hacan also commissioned a public opinion poll which suggests Heathrow expansion is not welcomed by most. 18% of people support the Government’s policy of expanding UK airports and 62% back a reduction in the number of short-haul flights using Heathrow.
l Aviation and climate change: public opinion and the scope for action, by Woodnewton Associates can be viewed on www.hacan.org.uk

New CAA flightpaths
The Civil Aviation Authority is consulting on a fundamental shake up of flight paths and waiting stacks over a large area north of London.
l website www.consultation.nats.co.uk

In Parliament MP
Dan Rogerson asked the Government what research he has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the effects of low level decibel sound (sic) on public health.

Blood pressure rise when asleep
Further output from the Hyena noise and health effects study suggest that noise can raise blood pressure even while asleep.

Noise prompts 50,000 deaths a year
Close to half of all Europeans are regularly exposed to traffic noise levels that are potentially dangerous to health, a pressure group claims.
l Traffic noise reduction in Europe: health effects, social costs and technical and policy options to reduce road and rail traffic noise was commissioned by T&E and carried out by Dutch environmental consultants CE Delft www.transportenvironment.org

Performance indicator research released
Defra has published the findings of research that was commissioned to investigate the use of performance indicators for noise, Lacors reports.
l Performance indicators: A review of their use to monitor the management of environmental and neighbourhood noise can be viewed on http://randd.defra.gov.uk/Document.aspx?Document=NO01117_6988_FRP.pdf

Delivery launch
The Noise Abatement Society in association with Wandsworth Borough Council and Doncaster MBC is formally launching its Silent Approach quiet delivery initiative at the Commercial Vehicle show in Birmingham on the 17th April.
l website www.noiseabatementsociety.com

101 service fragments
Home Office funding cuts have claimed more victims among the 101 hotline pilot authorities.

Helicopters come under fire
Helicopter noise is very much in the news so the recent IoA conference in Manchester inevitably attracted considerable interest. Held at Salford University’s revamped conference facilities, the event drew in a wide range of experts in this complex field.

Nuisance noise unpicked
Methods of dealing with nuisance noise are having to keep abreast with changes in behaviour, legislation and technology, reports Lisa Russell

Smoking advice
Lacors has published advice on the noise and nuisance implications of the smoking ban.
l Guidance to noise, licensing and smokefree issues can be downloaded from
www.lacors.gov.uk/lacors/upload/17381.doc

Edinburgh seats
Edinburgh City Council is considering changing the current permit system for outdoor tables and chairs outside pubs and cafes.

130 chapters on noise
An 130-chapter book on noise and vibration has been published. The Handbook of noise and vibration control contains 1,600 pages and was edited by Malcolm Crocker. It costs £105.
l More details on website www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0471395994.html

Plymouth criticised
The Local Government Ombudsman has criticised Plymouth City Council for delays in taking enforcement action over non-compliance with planning conditions at industrial premises.
l www.lgo.org.uk

Wind approved
Three new wind farms have been granted consent by the Government – two onshore farms at Keadby, North Lincolnshire and another at Thorne, South Yorkshire. An offshore farm has been approved on Gunfleet Sands, Thames Estuary.

Hard shoulder boost
Hard shoulders are set to be used to improve capacity on motorways.

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Jan/Feb 2008 headlines (issue 19)

NI counts noise exposure
In a move that will further isolate England, Northern Ireland has completed its noise mapping. Welsh maps are due within days.
l Maps can be viewed on an interactive website – www.noiseni.co.uk

Isoniq elsewhere
Isoniq is working in Wales and Ireland, as well as in Northern Ireland
l www.isoniq.co.uk

Contours released for English airports
England’s busiest airports have been mapped. Results have been posted on Defra’s website.
l http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/ambient.htm

St Albans bar row spills over to High Court
St Albans District Council is pursuing a case to the High Court that will test a defendant’s ‘best practical means’ defence.

HYENA finds blood pressure link
A huge multi national study has shown that a 10db increase in long term exposure to noise increases the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure).
l The paper can be viewed via the Environmental Health Perspectives website www.ehponline.org/members/ 2007/10775/10775.pdf

WHO late on noise
World Health Organisation night noise guidelines, (NB October p1) which were to have been released last year, are not now expected to be released until later in Spring.

Costs outlined
The European Commission has produced a 300 page report setting out the external environmental costs of transport, including noise.
l The costing document can be viewed on  http://ec.europa.eu/transport/ road/policy/index_en.htm

Video capture
A large rise in complaints about late night rowdiness at pubs has prompted the launch of a video based
l More details: www.campbell-associates.co.uk

Flat tyres
European lobby group T&E reports that the European Commission has “once again” postponed proposals on limiting road noise from tyres by six months.
l www.transportenvironment.org

Health fillip
EPUK (formerly NSCA) has suggested that prime minister Gordon Brown considers spending more on the environment to improve public health.

New EPUK website
Environmental Protection UK has a new website. Close on the heals of its rebranding from NSCA
l EPUK’s new website can be found on www.environmental-protection.org.uk.

Deliveries on the quiet
Trials at a sensitive London location have shown that night-time deliveries to supermarkets need not wake the neighbours.

Microgeneration: councils talk
EPUK organised a conference to swap experiences of environmental benefits – and downsides – of domestic turbines and heat pumps

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December 2007 headlines (issue 18)

Bigger Heathrow, less noise
50% more planes, a sixth terminal and a third runway at Heathrow will not worsen noise nuisance, claims the Government.
l www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/ open/heathrowconsultation/

Inaudibility rejected at appeal
Birmingham City Council has lost an appeal mounted by a developer of 162 flats on the issue of ‘inaudibility’. The council feared that allowing housing in an entertainment zone would lead to nuisance actions putting pressure on local night spots.

Details emerge of Defra noise strategy
Details are emerging on the shape of Defra’s draft noise strategy.

Amber light for wind turbine relaxation
DCLG will lay regulations to take wind turbines and heat pumps out of the planning system – subject to further research on noise impacts.
l www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/householdermicrogeneration

Planning Bill
In the same batch of planning announcements as that on domestic microgeneration, a Planning Bill has been published that will streamline major infrastructure projects.

NI complaints up
Almost 12,000 noise complaints were recorded last year, a new report from DOE in Northern Ireland has revealed.
l www.northernireland.gov. uk/news/news-doe/news-doe-151107-noise-complaints-on.htm

Top tapper
A Norsonic tapping machine from Campbell Associates has been launched. l www.campbell-associates.co.uk Inspire consultation The Commission is consulting on the shape of the Inspire directive which seeks to harmonise data provision, for instance in noise maps.
l www.ec-gis.org/inspire/ public_consultations/metadata/index.cfm

Nuisance can now be logged online
Two new websites allow logging of nuisance noise via online maps. Mike Stigwood of MAS Environmental has launched www.makeyourownnoise.co.uk to allow complaints to be logged against commercial nuisances such as factories, theme parks and wind turbines.
   Meanwhile Croydon is using Google maps to allow complaints to be registered against barking dogs http://tinyurl.com/2knu77

Last chance saloon for 57LAeq
The concepts contained in the consultation on expansion of Heathrow, mostly based on ANASE, are hugely important and will be debated for years to come

ANASE: what it concluded:
The study makes clear that compared to the 1980s Aircraft Noise Index Study (ANIS), the role of aircraft movements has become much more critical – that annoyance is more closely related to the number of movements than to averaged noise (LAeq).
l http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/environmentalissues/Anase/http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/environmentalissues/Anase/

Anase reviewers slam the researchers
A high profile and contentious spat between acousticians was published along with the ANASE study
l Attitudes to ANASE – Non SP Peer Review: www.dft.gov.uk/ consultations/open/heathrowconsultation/technicalreports/
Robust review
The Robust Details scheme, set up to improve sound insulation standards in homes, has passed its three year review.

Sustainable & robust
A masonry wall ‘robust detail’ has achieved credits under the Code for Sustainable Homes.
l www.robustdetails.com

Scottish grants reviewed
Most of Scotland’s local authorities have taken advantage of Scottish Government grants to launch services on anti-social neighbour noise nuisance. The first evaluation is now available.
l The report can be viewed on www.scotland.gov.uk/socialresearch

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November 2007 headlines (issue 17)

Anase challenges plane nuisance
The suitability of the LAeq measure is under scrutiny following the much delayed publication of the DfT’s Attitudes to noise from aviation sources in England (Anase) report.
l Anase can be viewed on www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/environmentalissues/Anase

Standard planning conditions proposed for wind turbines
Dberr (formerly the DTi) has set out guidance on planning conditions for wind turbines in a bid to add more clarity to developers proposing wind farms.
l Onshore wind energy planning conditions guidance note can be viewed on www.planningrenewables.org. uk/cgi-bin/resource.cgi

News from the NSCA (now EPUK) noise update meeting held in Birmingham last month

Turner’s turning theory
Turning aircraft may be the cause of increased noise nuisance above London, Bureau Veritas’ Stephen Turner told the EPUK noise update conference held in Birmingham.

Mendip tackles entertainment noise
On top of Glastonbury rock festival, Mendip Council also deals with more mundane noise nuisance issues because the district is particularly quiet.

Asbos exposed
Asbo legislation is broadly defined and can be used to tackle varied types of anti social behaviour, legal expert Stuart MacDonald of Swansea University told delegates at EPUK’s noise update conference in Birmingham last month.
l ASBOs, a guide for the judiciary can be viewed www.jsboard.co.uk/publications/asbo_guidance_for_judiciary_edition_3.doc

Scottish services scrutinised
Scottish Government has released in-depth research into provision of council noise nuisance services.
l An evaluation of local authority antisocial neighbour noise nuisance services www.scotland.gov.uk/pub lications/2007/10/24132337/0

Councils scoop John Connell awards
The annual John Connell awards for effort in tackling noise have been announced.
l www.noiseabatementsociety.com

Tyre standards criticised by EPUK
Environmental Protection UK (EPUK) is calling for quieter tyre standards.

EPUK launched in Westminster
Environmental Protection UK is the new name for the National Society for Clean Air (NSCA).

Tube too loud
The UK Noise Association has completed its study into noise on London’s underground.
l The Mind the (gap) noise report can be viewed on www.ukna.org.uk

Appraisal ‘refresh’
The DfT’s key appraisal guide is set for a ‘refresh’.
l The NATA refresh: reviewing the new approach to transport appraisal is on www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/consulnatarefresh

Protest website
Hacan Clearskies and other pressure groups have launched a new anti expansion website to coordinate their objections
l www.stopheathrowexpansion.com

Book review: Manifesto for silence
Unusual take on noise nuisance of interest if you fancy an intellectual challenge
Manifesto for silence: confronting the politics and culture of noise, Stuart Sim, Edinburgh University Press £15.99.

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October 2007 headlines (issue 16)

Scots first with action plans
Scotland is the first administration in the UK to complete noise maps and consult on action planning.
l Maps can be viewed on www.scottishnoisemapping.org

Noise can help ADHD learning for children
Background noise can help the performance of children with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), Swedish researchers say.
l More details can be found on www.diva-portal.org/su/abstract.xsql?dbid=7040

Stone crusher fails at appeal
Protection of a tranquil area from noise has been instrumental in an appeal refusal for a stone crusher operation in Scotland.

Minister pressed to continue WHO research
UK Noise Campaigners have joined together to urge continued funding for World Health organisation research into noise and health.

Commission urged
NSCA is also pushing the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution (RCEP) to launch a probe into noise. The Commission recently consulted on what topics it should cover.

NSCA manages microgeneration
NSCA has produced guidance on domestic wind turbines. The group is organising a one day conference on the issue. It will be held in Manchester on 21st November.
l Small scale wind turbines – a guide is available from NSCA www.nsca.org.uk


News from Internoise held in Istanbul last month

WHO to agree 30dbA for night?
Dutch noise expert Martin van den Berg revealed early details of thinking behind the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) proposed night noise guidelines. These will complement daytime guidelines set in 2000.

Variable speed yields minor benefits
The introduction of variable speed controls on the M42 motorway in the West Midlands has led to a minor, barely significant reduction in noise.

Aircraft noise linked to mental health
Japanese researchers say that aircraft noise may be linked to mental health, especially during the evening period.

WHO: noise kills 3% ?
Noise could be responsible for killing 3% of those with weak hearts, the New Scientist has reported.

101 for London
London may trial use of the non-emergency 101 number for noise complaints.

Anase: more waiting
The Government has been asked in Parliament when it expects to publish the results of the Attitudes to noise from aviation sources in England (Anase) study.

York prioritises
York City Council has responded to the findings of the Rogers Review of Local Authority Regulatory Priorities during a meeting of its neighbourhood services panel.

Racing noise debated
Motor racing measurements are among topics to be discussed at the Institute of Acoustics Autumn conference organised by the noise and vibration engineering group.
l IoA autumn conference: Advances in noise and vibration engineering to be held in Oxford on 17-18 October, website www.ioa.org.uk

Turbine disturbs
Ryedale Council has received noise complaints from neighbours living near a domestic wind turbine.

Louth turbine agreed
A domestic wind turbine has won planning permission on appeal.

Robust Details boosts web presence
Robust Details Ltd has revamped its website which now features up to date information about gaining credits under the Code for Sustainable Homes using Robust Details, in a move to make the scheme more accessible to a wider audience.
l www.robustdetails.com

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Aug/Sept 2007 headlines (issue 15)

Wind expert quits thinktank
Wind turbine noise expert Dick Bowdler has quit a government working party. He says the Noise Working Group has become “redundant” in the light of the Government’s endorsement of a Salford University report that claims that rhythmic noises from wind turbines are negligible and unlikely to be a nuisance. The government says Salford’s report “eases concerns over wind turbine noise”. Bowdler says it is misleading.
Editor's opinion here

Sainsbury fine for allowing cruise nuisance
Crawley Borough Council has successfully prosecuted Sainsbury’s supermarket for allowing boy racers to tear around a superstore car park causing a noise nuisance.

Agency misses road quietening target
The Highways Agency has missed its target for cutting noisy road surfaces.

Pub generation
Planning rules on microgeneration are set to be relaxed for small businesses as is being done for domestic properties.

Speed cut proposed in Bristol
Bristol City Council has produced a study showing a speed cut on the urban M32 motorway could reduce noise and air pollution.
l Bristol City Council’s M32 noise and air quality study can be viewed on www.bristol. gov.uk/redirect/?oid=Category-id-56555

Council indicators omit noise
Government has spelled out what it expects local authorities to do on the environment – and a new set of indicators. While climate change and air quality is included, noise is not.
l The proposed indicators can be found at: www.defra.gov.uk/environment/localgovindicators/index.htm

NSCA agrees name change
NSCA members have voted at a special general meeting to change the group’s name to Environmental Protection UK (EPUK).
l More details of voting issues on www.nsca.org.uk

Good and bad for air contours
Noise contours for BAA’s London airports show a mixed picture. DfT reports that Heathrow noise contours grew.
l www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/environmentalissues/nec/secnoise06/

Richmond first with remote concert monitor
The London Borough of Richmond is the first council to use Bruel and Kjaer’s sound testing equipment with a wireless link to monitor concert noise levels and reduced the number of staff it usually needs at this type of event.
l www.bksv.co.uk

Little red book launched
A “Little Red Book” has been launched for acousticians. The 225-page pocketbook (little larger than a pocket diary) focuses on environmental acoustics and building acoustics.
l email richard.watson @ hepworth-acoustics.co.uk

Bristol rapped
Bristol City Council has been criticised by the Local Authority Ombudsman for failing to properly consult on noise and other impacts of a waste transfer facility that caused a nuisance.

Leg up for EHOs
Environmental health officers living in London, the south- east and east of England will be eligible for key worker housing, the Department of Communities and Local Government has confirmed.

RCEP escapes
An independent review of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution suggests it may be retained.
l www.defra.gov.uk/environment/rcep/index.htm

Tyre plea from NSCA
NSCA has written to the Government demanding a review of the EU tyre directive.

Scotland maps
Scotland is holding a conference detailing its noise mapping progress. The conference will be held in Edinburgh on 4th September.
l For further details email noise @ scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Lothian uses meters
Lothian Police is using sound meters in a bid to quieten down modified cars. Noise Bulletin asked for more details but the force refused to comment.

Ten pilots chosen
Ten local authorities have been chosen to pilot more localised control of spending priorities including nuisance and noise.

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July 2007 headlines (issue 14)

Noise ‘burden’ to be resisted
A taskforce has warned against adoption of noise performance indicators.
l The Lifting the burdens task force review of Defra can be viewed on www.lga.gov.uk/ download.asp?path=/Documents/Publication/ LBTF_DEFRA.pdf

New minister ‘chooses’ noise
Tony Blair’s departure as Prime Minister has seen incoming PM Gordon Brown shake up ministerial positions. The expected merger of Defra and the energy side of the DTi failed to materialise.

New name, new mission?
The National Society for Clean Air (NSCA) is close to deciding on whether to change its name and adopt a new strategic plan.

Home turbine revamp fears
NSCA has roundly criticised plans to deregulate installation of domestic wind turbines. DCLG earlier this year launched a consultation suggesting that turbines need not require planning permission if they met certain noise limits (NB April p1).
l www.nsca.org.uk

Tough New York noise code enters law
New York’s new noise code came into force on July 1st.
l The code can be viewed on http://home2.nyc.gov/html/dep/pdf/noise_code.pdf

Mediation review released
A review of mediation services has been released by Defra.
l The report Review of use of mediation services by local authorities and housing associations Defra Contract NANR 197 can be viewed on www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/research/index.htm

Tube announcements considered too loud
Noise campaigners are seeking to quieten London tube announcements following the serving of an abatement notice on London Underground.
l www.ukna.org.uk

EU programme omission
European pressure group EEB is highlighting the omission of noise from core European policy.
l EEB response to the mid-term review of the sixth Community Environment Action Programme, www.eeb.org/publication/EEB-response-to-the-Mid-Term-Review-of-6EAP-130607.pdf

Acoustic firms highlighted
A building website is listing firms specialising in acoustics. Acoustic consultants are listed by county on The Construction Centre website. Over 200 firms are listed.
l www.theconstructioncentre.co.uk

More guidance for licensing
New 2003 Licensing Act guidance has been released.
l Revised Guidance issued under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 – June 07 can be viewed on www.culture. gov.uk/what_we_do/Alcohol_entertainment/licensing_act_2003_explained/

Glastonbury over
This year’s Glastonbury festival has passed with few complaints from neighbours but reports that bands were too quiet.

Update for pop code?
Experts are being asked for comments on an update of the Code of practice on environmental noise control at concerts.

Action week: who did what
Local authorities around the country used the annual Noise Action Week to educate, advise and even have a bit of fun.

Coventry expansion rejected
Expansion of Coventry Airport has been rejected on noise grounds.
l www.communities.gov.uk/pub/382/coventryairportsiskinpark

Agency wades into Heathrow growth debate
The Environment Agency has tabled its reservations about further expansion at Heathrow Airport.

Airports get advance warning from PSDH?
The 2M grouping of London authorities opposed to Heathrow expansion are complaining that airport operator BAA has been given advance access to data on noise.
l www.2MGroup.org.uk
Quest for peace and quiet images
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets’ environmental health team is running a Peace and tranquillity photograph competition aimed at raising awareness of noise issues in the borough.
l Details of the competition can be found on www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/ templates/news/detail.cfm?newsid=7750

Noise Update 2007
NSCA is finalising its line up for the Noise Update one day conference to be held on 10th October at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Topics to be covered include: l Noise action planning – where are we now?;
l Online booking www.nsca.org.uk/pages/events_and_training/index.cfm

Merton rap for stair nuisance
The London Borough of Merton has been criticised by the Local Authority Ombudsman for noise nuisance from a metal staircase on a new block of flats.
l www.lgo.org.uk

Smoking ban prompts warning
England has joined Wales and Scotland with a ban on smoking in the workplace. NSCA has warned that the ban might lead to extra noise for pub neighbours.

Industry awards to reward noise
The inaugural Rushlight Awards have been launched to promote and celebrate the achievements of the leading UK and Irish environmental technology and innovation.
l www.rushlightawards.co.uk

Green expenditure revealed by Defra
Defra has released its 2005 environmental protection expenditure survey.
l Environmental protection expenditure survey by industry 2005 can be viewed on www.defra.gov.uk

Further delays to powers
Parliament has been told that there will be further delays to implementation of Noise Act powers to licensed premises. Defra still can’t say when the notification process will be completed.
l www.defra.gov.uk/environ ment/noise/noiseact.htm

European annoyance
43% of people living in the UK reported substantial noise annoyance at home.
l The questionnaire is available on the website www.ifado.de/silence.

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June 2007 headlines (issue 12)

All change for planning
The widely anticipated shake up of the planning system is outlined in a new White Paper.
l Planning for a sustainable future www.communities.gov. uk/embedded_object.asp?id=1510669

PPS23 vulnerable?
 Rumours have been circulating that planning policy statements and guidance on specific issues (such as PPG24 on noise and PPS23 on air quality) will be axed in favour of more overarching policy statements contained in an expanded PPS1 Delivering sustainable development.

House closures
Councils are to be given powers to close houses due to excess noise. The powers will be like those given to the police to close crack dens.
l http://press.homeoffice. gov.uk/press-releases/ new-house-closure-powers-asb?version=1

Smoke shelter refused
Noise and nuisance fears have scuppered plans to erect a smoking shelter at an Asda store in Ellesmere Port.

BAA lets Londoners track loud planes
BAA has launched a new website that will enable local residents around its Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports to track planes and find out which ones are making excess noise. The software is similar to that used at other airports (such as East Midlands).
l BAA’s noise and web tracking can be seen at: www.heathrowairport.com/noise www.stanstedairport.com/noise www.gatwickairport.com/noise

Ecolabels for planes
Budget airline Flybe has launched an ecolabel for its flights.
l Flybe’s ecolabels can be seen on www.flybe.com/ environment/eco-labels.htm

Trains: plans to make them quieter
The European Commission is consulting on the need to reduce noise from trains.
l http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/ener gy_transport/home/consultation/transport_en.htm

Annoyance due to anxiety, not noise
Annoyance may be more related to anxiety traits rather than noise or air quality, Danish researchers suggest.

Heathrow footprint spreads
Flight numbers at Heathrow are likely to rise to 800,000 a year, the Government has admitted.
l www.hacan.org.uk

Operation Torque tackles noisy bikes
Noise Action Week saw hundreds of UK authorities carrying out innovative events.
l www.nsca.org.uk

Port loses appeal
A scrap metal exporter operating from Brightlingsea Harbour in Essex has lost its appeal for extended operating hours.

Grants restart
Grants for people who want to install micro-wind turbines on their homes have been made available again – albeit with tighter conditions.
l More details on www.low carbonbuildings.org.uk

For the record...
Environment minister Ben Bradshaw has told Parliament that he will issue a combined national noise strategy, covering both environmental and neighbourhood noise, “by the end of 2007”.

Stansted inquiry opens
Noise arguments will be aired as the inquiry opens into plans to expand Stansted airport. BAA wants an extra 75,000 flights a year and the complete removal of the annual 25m limit on the number of passengers.

Rehis seeks feedback
The Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland is urging councils to respond to a Scottish Executive consultation on environmental health.
l Consultation on Environment and health Strategic Framework, can be viewed on www.rehis.org

Mosquito backlash
MPs have asked Home Office ministers whether there are any environmental impacts or health and safety implications from the increasing use of the Mosquito ultrasonic youth deterrent device.

May 2007 headlines (issue 12)

Inspector rejects noise fears
A planning inspector has rejected noise and air quality fears in an appeal judgement in Sandwell.

Councils plot action week gimmicks ....
Noise Action Week – 21st to 25th May – is looming.
l www.noiseactionweek.org.uk

... as Prime Minister’s petition is set up
To mark Noise Action Week, consultant Sanctum has launched an online petition on noise.
l  http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/noisenuisance/

UK is number three UK ranks third best in terms of domestic noise pollution in new Europe-wide survey released to mark International Noise Awareness Day held last month on 25th April.
l  The full version of the AEG-Electrolux Noise report can found on
www.electrolux .com/noisereport

Tranquillity: a better way
NSCA has set out its thoughts on tranquillity. It has produced a position paper following publication of a TRL report commissioned by Defra that suggested identifying tranquil areas, then knocking out all but a few on cost grounds.

Quiet life aims to cut domestic machine din
Noise campaigner Val Weedon has relaunched her Quiet Life guide.
l  www.thequietguide.co.uk

Germans show off active window technology
Researchers in Germany have devised a window that offers relief from noise pollution, reports the ICE.
l More details on the website www.ice.org.uk/knowledge/spec_news.asp?ARTICLE_ID=1858

Choppers heads research list
A study into helicopter noise is proposed in the latest list of noise research projects planned by Defra (see news, below).

Research: Defra’s (very long!) wish list
Each year, Defra publishes a long list of noise research projects it wants to carry out. Usually relatively few are carried out due to financial constraints – and Defra overspending and subsequent moratorium’s have taken their toll on the programme.
l www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/research/index.htm

CAA outlines procedure for airspace changes
Updated guidance on the application of the Airspace Change Process has been published by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
l The document is available on the CAA website at: www.caa.co.uk/cap725

Wind up for turbines
Wind farm noise was the theme of a lively workshop held in Swaffham by the Institute of Acoustics

Consultation: early views on wind
Noise Bulletin asked some experts what they thought about noise aspects of domestic wind turbines contained in last months consultation on deregulation of such turbines. Views were mixed.

Sustainability starts at home
Acoustic performance plays an important part in a building's contribution towards the creation of sustainable developments, says Lisa Russell.

Snap meeting on wind
The spate of planning applications for domestic wind turbines – and planned removal of the need to get planning permission– has prompted NSCA and the Institute of Acoustics to organise a meeting to be held in Birmingham on June 1st
l www.ioa.org.uk.

In Parliament
The Government has confirmed in Parliament that it has no intention of ring fencing money for council noise abatement services.

Boy racer Asbos
Aberdeen City Council has warned anti-social drivers that they face tough measures to bar them from city streets in a bid to cut noise and disturbance.

Lacors plea on stats
Local authority group Lacors has urged councils to complete the annual statistical questionnaire on noise enforcement activity.
l website www.lacors.gov.uk/lacors/ContentDetails.aspx?id=16163

Glastonbury go ahead
The Glastonbury Festival has won a four year licence from Mendip council.

Vibration studied
Defra has released a report aimed to develop a method by which residential exposure to vibration can be assessed.
l Human response to vibration in residential environments
www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/research/index.htm#research

Quarrying noise
Hepworth Acoustics has updated a database of noise from quarrying machinery. l Update of noise database for prediction of noise on construction and open sites (weblink as above).

Turbine request
Mole Valley’s Gillian Rose is seeking a domestic wind turbine to study for her IoA diploma. If there is a suitable one on your patch,
l email Gillian.Rose@ molevalley.gov.uk

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April 2007 headlines (issue 11)

Home wind turbine boost ...
The Government is boosting small scale renewable energy schemes – including domestic wind turbines – through increased grants and relaxation of planning laws.
l Domestic installation of microgeneration equipment: a review of the permitted development regulations www.communities.gov.uk/ index.asp?id=1504866

... but noise fears prompt council action
Potential noise problems from domestic turbines dominated discussions at last month’s NSCA spring workshop. The reaction prompted the spontaneous setting up of a special interest working group by Alick Natton of Vale of White Horse District Council.
l Natton is coordinating an email ring: alick.natton@ whitehorsedc.gov.uk

Map areas set
Defra has set out the areas that will need mapping in detail as required by European directives. Areas are more fragmented than at first imagined.
l Environmental noise (identification of noise sources) (England) regulations 2007 can be viewed on www.opsi.gov.uk/si/em2007/uksiem_20070415_en.pdf

TAG: hindrance to development?
A seemingly obscure guidance document could make it more difficult for developers to get their schemes approved on noise grounds says Lis Stedman
l www.webtag.org.uk (noise section)

Noise not a national priority
A review of local authority priorities has said that noise is not a national priority.
l The Rogers Review can be seen on www.cabinetoffice. gov.uk/regulation/reviewing_regulation/rogers_review/index.asp

Weak Alton Towers order deal to stand
An appeal against a ‘weak’ nuisance order made against Alton Towers has failed.
l www.richardbuxton.co.uk/ reference/view.php?table=transcripts&id=182&flag=name

Boston recounts domestic turbine nuisance
Boston is one of a growing number of authorities that have already dealt with domestic wind turbine nuisance complaints.

Council rapped for ignoring PPG24
The Local Authority Ombudsman has criticised South Cambridgeshire Council for allowing housing to be sited next to a noisy factory. The factory fears that it will be liable for any future noise nuisance claims from new residents.

News from the nsca spring workshop held in didcot

EU mapping: hope for Defra backtrack on local involvement
The NSCA spring workshop heard from both English and Scottish governments on the progress of action planning.

Mediation: how is it going?
Stuart Dryden of consultant Rupert Taylor revealed details of a study into mediation carried out for Defra.

Turbine studied
Bureau Veritas’s Gwyn Mapp told the conference of his personal research study into a domestic wind turbine in south London.

Scots share smoking secrets
Scotland has had a smoking ban since last year, experience there is set to be repeated in England from this summer.

Licensing problems outlined by Horton
Independent environmental health officer Keith Horton outlined many difficulties with the new Licensing Act – for which revised guidance is due out shortly. Horton told the NSCA audience he was “quite concerned about the way licensing is going”.

Soundscapes take centre stage
Acousticians, social scientists and artists alike are becoming more interested the role that soundscapes play in urban life, says Lisa Russell from the recent GLA Soundscape conference.

Licensing: time to change?
As the DCMS concludes a consultation on possible revisions to licensing guidelines, Lis Stedman talks to EHOs about how the process is working

Defra reorganises?
Defra’s noise team is set to undergo yet another reorganisation.

Award scheme
A new environmental award scheme has been launched.
l www.rushlightawards.co.uk

BAA ‘fast tracks’
Airport operator BAA Ferrovial says it is to ‘twin track’ plans for extra runways at Heathrow and Stansted.

Fit for purpose
The Institute of Acoustics is holding a one day meeting on 11 July 2007 to answer the question How good a measurement should I make to ensure it is fit for purpose?
l www.ioa.org.uk

Code includes sound
The Code for Sustainable Homes released by the Government this month mainly deals with carbon emissions but also focuses on health and well being and the impacts of external sources, such as noise pollution, on quality of life.
l www.robustdetails.com.

Boost for quiet roads
The Highways Agency has said that next year there will be a five fold increase in amount of lower noise road surfacing it will lay.
l Highways Agency business plan 2007-2008 website www.highways.gov.uk/aboutus/14772.aspx

Horns strangled
The Railway Safety and Standards Board has accepted pressure to reduce nuisance and is introducing new measures intended to reduce the impact of loud train horns.

Action week reminder
Noise Action Week (21-25 May) is looming and NSCA is reminding participants that support materials are available.
l www.noiseactionweek.org.uk

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March 2007 headlines (issue 10)

RCEP sidelines urban noise
A high profile report on the urban environment says that noise is “outside the thrust” of its study into the urban environment.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l www.rcep.org.uk

Wind turbine rejected on appeal
A planning application for a wind turbine in a domestic garden in Aylesbury Vale has been turned down on appeal.

Multiple noises
A consortium assembled by Addiscombe Environmental Consultants Ltd, comprising Ken Collins of KC Environmental, Bernard Berry of BEL, Nicole Porter, and Ian Flindell of IHF Associates have been awarded a research contract by Defra on the effects of noise from more than one source.

Courts allowed to ignore EHOs
A judgement has confirmed that courts are entitled not to follow the views of professional council officers when deciding whether noise amounts to a statutory nuisance.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l London Borough of Hackney Vs Moshe Rottenberg [2007] All ER (D) 174 (Jan)

Westminster wins street noise case
Westminster City Council has won arguments in court that it had powers to control noise from a shop window.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l Westminster City Council v French Connection Retail Ltd [2005] Env LR 42. (Queens Bench Division).

Serve abatement notice first, Newcastle told
Newcastle City Council has lost a High Court case and been told it should have first served an abatement notice on a farmer causing a nuisance.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l The Barns (NE) Ltd v Newcastle Upon Tyne CC [2006] Env LR 25 (Court of Appeal, Civ. Div.)

Kenwood stopper
Kenwood concerts have been cancelled with promoter English Heritage claiming that noise restrictions are too tight.

Councils prepare for action
Local authorities across the UK are making plans for this year’s Noise Action Week. Many local authorities set up eyecatching media-friendly noise activities for the period.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l www.noiseactionweek.org.uk

Solar noise barriers “not cost effective”
Combined noise barrier and solar panels are unlikely to be cost effective.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l M27 trial of highway noise barriers as solar energy generators, TRL report PPR178, D Carder and K Barker is available from Janet Brown, TRL Publications Unit tel 01344 770297

Persistent complainers
The Information Commissioner has struck another blow to persistent complainers in a new ruling.
west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l www.ico.gov.uk

Warnings on Heathrow routes
The new council 2M grouping fighting the expansion of Heathrow says large areas of north and west London will suffer increased aircraft noise if the third Heathrow runway goes ahead.
l 2M (referring to two million residents) website is on www.wandsworth.gov.uk/ Home/MyWandsworth/ Newsextra/pr1.htm

‘Noisiest city’ report annoys
A report ranking cities has concluded that Newcastle upon Tyne is the noisiest urban area in the UK.

First shot fired in anti Heathrow battle
As promised, protesters against the further expansion of Heathrow have started direct action to resist the expansion by disrupting a meeting.

How and when to use the WHO
The World Health Organisation (WHO) noise guidelines are highly influential but their application often leads to disagreements. Lisa Russell reports.

Pro-bono aid Sanctum style
Questioning the decisions of authorities and the courts can be a minefield – Sanctum provides an interesting way through, finds Lis Stedman

Quiet areas and vibration reports released
Defra has released two research reports. One was TRL’s study into quiet areas setting out possible ways that tranquil areas could be identified. A second looks at a methodology for assessing a method by which human exposure to vibration in residential environments can be assessed.
l Research into quiet areas: recommendations for identification, TRL report PPR158 and Research into human response to vibration in residential environments (NO01106) can be viewed on Defra’s science pages www2.defra.gov.uk/research/project_data/Default.asp

Slight growth in noise contours for 2005
DfT has released its yearly review of noise contours at the three main London airports.
l www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/ aviation/environmentalissues/nec/secnoise05/

Tyre directive delay
European transport and environment lobby group T&E is getting increasingly concerned at the failure of the Commission to produce a promised directive on noise from car tyres.
l www.transportenvironment.org

Noise workshop talks
NSCA has released its final line up of speakers for its popular spring noise workshop to be held in Didcot later this month (15th & 16th March).

Pipe down again
A ten minute Bill has been introduced into the House of Lords aiming to prohibit piped music and the showing of television programmes in the public areas of hospitals.

MVA win at Heathrow
BAA has commissioned MVA Consultancy to design, build, implement, and support a system to manage BAA Heathrow’s community noise, blight, and vortex schemes.
l www.mvaconsultancy.com

Belgians win order
Belgian air protesters have won a court battle against local authorities.

RAC wants quiet roads
The RAC Foundation has teamed up with noise campaigners to call on the Government to reinstate funding for its programme to resurface concrete roads for noise prevention reasons.

Hounslow demands data
The London Borough of Hounslow has approved its first domestic micro-wind turbine subject to a noise report.

Turbine tests
Researchers are mounting two wind turbines on top of a block of Southwark flats in a bid to find out about their noise disturbance potential.

Wind debate
The Institute of Acoustics is organising a one day conference on wind turbine noise.
l IoA’s meetings can be viewed on www.ioa.org.uk

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January/February 2007 headlines (issue 9)

Planning for home turbines
Local authorities are increasingly facing requests from residents to install domestic wind turbines. Some are carrying out tests to see what the noise outputs are. (Noise Bulleting this month contains a news story and a eature explaining what local authorities are doing about home electricity generation in terms of noise nuisance conditions).

Trafford Housing Trust wins ASBI
The Trafford Housing Trust has taken out an ASBI against a noisy tenant. ASBIs are anti social behaviour injunctions as opposed to orders.

Moto injunction
A noisy motorcross circuit at Matcham Park near Bournemouth has been at the centre of a planning appeal.

Measurement not needed for noise order
A quad bike safari business in Cornwall has lost its appeal against a conviction for breaching an abatement notice.

Persistent moaners: what to do
The Local Government Ombudsman has issued advice on how to deal with persistent complainers.
l Guidance note on ‘unreasonably persistent’ complainants and ‘unreasonable complainant behaviour’ can be viewed on www.lgo.org.uk/worddocs/guidance-note-UP-comps.doc

IoA welcomes sustainable homes code
The Institute of Acoustics has welcomed inclusion of sound insulation in the Government’s Code for Sustainable Homes.
l The IoA is holding a two-day conference on The sound of sustainability – going for gold” on 24 and 25 April 2007 at the De Vere University Arms Hotel in Cambridge. website www.ioa.org.uk

Train horns: curfew fails to please
The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) is proposing a night time curfew as part of a package to reduce train horn nuisance.
l RSSB website www.rssb.co.uk/comrelations.asp

2007: year of the strategy?
2007 is “probably the most crucial year for noise reduction” according to the UK Noise Association.

Progress report prompts battle charge
Protesters have reacted with dismay to Government confirmation that it will support continued expansion of air travel.
Local authorities were more measured, forming the ‘2M’ group
l www.wandsworth.gov.uk/Home/MyWandsworth/Newsextra/2mgroup.htm

Exhaust noise: study into measurement
The House of Commons has been told that DfT is “considering” research into the growing problem of excessive car exhaust noise.

Traffic noise probe
UKNA has set up a traffic and vehicle noise working group to look at the issue of noisy vehicles, including ‘boom box’ cars. It is currently carrying out an online questionnaire on the subject. www.ukna.org.uk

Keeping arrival noise down
Government and the aviation industry have cooperated to produce a code of practice to reduce noise from arriving aircraft.
l Noise from arriving aircraft www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_aviation/documents/page/dft_aviation_613678.pdf

Welsh consult
The Welsh Assembly is consulting on its regulations for extending Noise Act powers to pubs and clubs.
l http://new.wales.gov.uk/ consultations/currentconsultation/envandcouncurrcons/1054147/?lang=en

TRL’s toolkit
TRL has produced a traffic noise reduction toolkit.

Orchestra noise probe
A professional orchestra piloted guidance for the music and entertainment sector on the Control of Noise at Work Regulations, a Health and Safety Executive report suggests.
l More details www.hsenew s.com/2006/11/06/orchestra-pilot-of-the-noise-guidance/

Flight noise tool
A tool for the calculation of sound power levels of airplanes during vertical flyover from NPD-SEL data can be downloaded from the Imagine website.
l www.imagine-project.org

Action week dates
Noise Action Week will take place on May 21st—May 25th – although funding problems remain.
l www.noiseactionweek.org.uk/

Tyre directive pressure
Lobby groups are limbering up to influence the European Commission to tighten the tyre directive.

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December 2006 headlines (issue 8)

Tranquillity: defined by cost?
Increasing focus on tranquillity has left Defra and its advisors struggling to work out how to define it. Defra may compile its sites based on affordability rather than noise or tranquillity.

Noisy boy racer catches Worthing ASBO
Worthing Borough Council has succeeded in getting an Asbo against a noisy boy racer.

News from the Institute of Acoustics Autumn Conference

More flak for single number
Defra’s use of a single number for noise disturbance from pubs and clubs has come under criticism at an Institute of Acoustics conference.

Euro-approval delays number implementation
Defra says that it has agreed that the Noise Act threshold for fixed penalties will be 34dBA – but that there has been a delay in putting it into regulation.

Guidelines due: Waiting for Godot?
The long awaited noise impact assessment guidelines may soon be published. Author Stephen Turner of Bureau Veritas admitted that the process was rather like ‘waiting for Godot’.

Maps. Little benefit till 2017
Policy makers will have to wait until 2017 before noise maps are able to yield useful data on the noise climate, Acustica’s Simon Shilton has claimed.

Cranford abandonment: doubles annoyance?
Abandonment of the Heathrow ‘Cranford Agreement’ could have huge implications for the population living underneath the flightpath.

WHO switches emphasis to soundscapes
A key architect of World Health Organisation guidelines on noise has suggested that WHO guidelines are not likely to be met – and that a move towards looking to improving ‘soundscapes’ is needed to improve health.

Conference proceedings
Proceedings from the Autumn Conference are available from Linda Canty, Institute of Acoustics 01727 848195 www.ioa.org.uk

Stansted setback
Stansted Airport has had its expansion plans refused by Uttlesford District Council, the local planning authority.

Engineering award
The Institute of Acoustics (IOA) has awarded its Engineering Medal to Brian Hemsworth for his contribution to the understanding of railway noise and vibration. The medal was presented by Colin English, President of the Institute of Acoustics, at its recent Autumn Conference in Oxford.
l www.ioa.org.uk

Scotland guide is draft
Further to our report last month, we’ve been asked to emphasise that the Scottish Noise Management Guide remains in draft form and open to consultation.
l It can be viewed on www.scotland.gov.uk/ Publications/2005/10/ 2192231/22434

MPs study motorbikes
The House of Commons Transport Committee is to conduct an inquiry into the Government’s Motorcycling Strategy, with oral evidence sessions being held in early 2007.

Classroom deafness
One in five children struggle to distinguish speech in the classroom says RNID.
l RNID’s specially developed hearing check can be taken over the telephone by calling 0845 600 5555. It is part of Breaking the sound barrier, www.breakingthesound barrier.org.uk

AES accreditation
AES has been granted accreditation for its sound insulation testing service by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service.
l www.aes-labs.co.uk
 

2006 website review

November 2006 headlines (issue 7)

Maps no good for Leeds
Leeds City Council has decided to produce its own noise maps – it says Defra’s strategic noise maps will be of little use for its local needs.

Charge mooted for London choppers
A charge for helicopters using London’s skies is one option contained in the report of the London Assembly into helicopters. The report followed an inquiry in summer.

Another night flight challenge
The London boroughs of Richmond and Wandsworth are among a group seeking a judicial review of the Government’s Heathrow night flights policy. A similar challenge failed when taken to Europe three year ago.

Defra late say Lords
Lords MPs are considering whether Defra has failed to adequately transpose the Environmental Noise Directive.
l www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200506/ldselect/ ldmerit/250/250.pdf

News from the NSCA Noise update conference held in Birmingham

Hartnell spells out regs progress
Regulations are now laid in England and the three regions, Defra’s Wendy Hartnell told NSCA’s noise update conference held in Birmingham.

Hepworth: much work to do on mapping
Peter Hepworth outlined a consultants’ view of noise mapping. Hepworth was involved in one of the early maps released by Defra.

NSCA advises on being a quiet neighbour
NSCA – with support from Defra – has released a new guide aiming to help residents keep neighbour noise down.
l www.quieterhomes.org

Drink laws cause a stink
Jonathan Lartice of Defra fielded criticism from local authorities about changes to the pub licensing system. With the Home Office and DCLG departments unable to attend, it was left to Defra to defend changes that many considered unworkable.

Ovens now kitchen culprit, says Electrolux
So much effort has been focused on making kitchen appliances quiet that cookers have been left behind, says Electrolux’s Marco Clara.

Moorhouse moots low frequency ‘clinics’
Salford University’s Andy Moorhouse outlined work carried out for Defra on producing guidance for local authorities investigating low frequency noise.

Encams happy
Environmental lobbyists Encams reported back on the progress of its Noise Concern campaign.

CPRE fuels tranquillity debate
Countryside campaigners CPRE say they have developed a new way to map rural tranquillity.
l The maps can be viewed on www.cpre.org.uk

‘Silent’ plane progress
Researchers from Cambridge University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) say they are one step closer to producing quieter aircraft. T
l http://silentaircraft.org

Leeds win John Connell award once again
Leeds City Council has won this year’s John Connell award – for the third time.  Meanwhile Huntingdonshire was highly commended for its education work with children with environmental health officers going to schools. Bromley London Borough won the innovation award for its ‘safe and sound’ scheme. The enterprise award went to Shetland Islands Council
l www.noiseabatementsociety.com

UKNA polls firework feeling
The UK Noise Association has launched an on-line survey to assess public support for banning the sale of fireworks.
l www.ukna.org.uk

ANC completes 50,000th test
The Association of Noise Consultants (ANC) has celebrated completion of the 50,000th test of compliance to Part E sound insulation requirements.
l website www.association-of-noise-consultants.co.uk

No rap for Amber
The local authority Ombudsman has said that a skate park is noisy – but Amber Valley did not break the rules by allowing it.

Workshop on presenting mapping information to the public

UK hosts mapping thinktank
An international workshop held in London looked at ways that noise maps can be effectively presented to the public. There has been criticism that noise maps take much time and money to produce, and are posted on the web but then languish with little interest from the public.

GLA’s Bloomfield in blue sky thinking
The Greater London Authority provided the noise mapping conference with its usual insightful ‘blue sky’ thinking.

101 in trouble
The single non-emergency 101 number may be scrapped.

Silent delivery code
Guidance on quieter deliveries has been agreed by the truck industry in a bid to ease delivery curfews on stores. T
l Delivering the goods: A toolkit for improving deliveries is at www.fta.co.uk.

UK lays regs to enact directive
Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have all now joined England in bringing regulations into operation to enact the European Noise Directive (END).

‘Bible’ produced at last
Publication of the updated noise management guide gives local authorities the opportunity for greater consistency

October 2006 headlines (issue 6)

Regs laid – concern remains
Defra has laid regulations enacting the European Noise Directive.
l Environmental Noise (England) Regulations 2006 can be viewed on www.defra.gov.uk/environment/noise/ambient.htm

NSCA raises licensing fears
NSCA has commented on proposed changes to apply the Noise Act to licensed premises

Consultants win EHO debate
Consultants meet the needs of local authorities, an Institute of Acoustics Central Branch debate concluded in Stevenage last month.

DIY wind power
DIY retailer B&Q is now selling domestic wind turbines in its stores. For £1,498 including installation, shoppers can buy a Windsave 1kw system.
l www.windsave.com.

Home turbine agreed
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has dismissed noise objections to a domestic wind turbine at a house in the borough.

Scotland makes a start on noise mapping
A team led by consultant Hamilton & McGregor has been chosen by the Scottish Executive to carry out provide noise mapping Services in Scotland.

Noise Bulletin reports from Low Frequency 2006 held in Bristol

Turbine disease link refuted
Wind turbines are unlikely to cause vibro acoustic disease as claimed by some objectors, last month’s Low Frequency 2006 international conference held in Bristol was told.

Quiet means more low frequency nuisance
Reducing ambient sound may prompt more people to be disturbed by low frequency noise, the Bristol conference was told.

Purring: low frequency noise is good for you?
US research presented to the Low Frequency 2006 conference suggests that low frequency noise has significant healing properties.

l Proceedings
Proceedings from the Low Frequency 2006 conference are available from organiser @lowfrequency2006.org

News from the UKNA Within these walls conference in Edinburgh

MEP criticises noise inaction
MEP Brian Adam criticised noise policy at the opening of the UK Noise Association’s Within these walls conference on sound insulation held at Napier University last month.

Ashton counts true cost of housing noise
Ron Ashton manages houses for Angus Council and told the UKNA conference: “Noise is the big one for us making up to 76% of complaints. Arbitration and mediation hasn’t worked at all, costing £800 per case with a 35% success rate and taking a long time.

Call for young persons nominations
The Institute of Acoustics is inviting nominations for the second round of its ‘Young Persons’ Award for Innovation in Acoustical Engineering’. The biennial prize is sponsored by IAC and the closing date is 30 March 2007. Judges will be looking for entries that are: innovative and inventive; feasible and practicable; money-saving; green; end-user friendly; time-saving and that are improvements to existing processes.
l www.ioa.org.uk/medals.asp

RSD progress
Robust Standard Details Ltd says 97% of new homes it tests pass or exceed new Part E sound insulation requirements.
l www.robustdetails.com

Colchester’s first Asbo
Colchester Borough Council has secured its first Asbo based on noise.

Transport assessment
DfT is consulting on new transport assessment guidance for developers.
l Guidance on transport assessment can be seen on www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_roads/documents/page/dft_roads_612257.pdf

IoA spring call
IoA’s spring conference will focus on the up and coming Olympics in 2012 and other related issues and it is calling for papers on topics including sustainability, venues/facades, transport, modular construction, urban regeneration, update on schools & BB101, and sound insulation
l www.ioa.org.uk

Good neighbours
The DCLG (former ODPM) has set out how good neighbour agreements can be used to help cut anti social behaviour and noise.
l Using good neighbour agreements www.communities.gov.uk/embedded_object.asp?id=1502189

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Aug/Sept 2006 headlines (issue 5)

Website review: see our list of top non-local authority sites and top ten local authority sites

Wind ‘modulation’ annoys
A DTi new report has cleared wind turbines of causing widespread low frequency noise nuisance. But it does concede modulation (that sounds like low frequency noise) might be a problem.
l The measurement of low frequency noise at three UK wind farms by Hayes McKenzie can be viewed on www.dti.gov.uk/energy/sources/renewables/publications/ page31267.html

UKNA warn on wind noise
The UK Noise Association (UKNA) has warned that badly sited wind turbines can cause noise nuisance. In contrast to the Hayes McKenzie report, it reports numerous instances of noise nuisance resulting from wind turbines.
l Location, location, location by John Stewart of the UKNA, can be viewed on www.ukna.org.uk

Scotland 1, England 0
Scotland has beaten England in its struggle to get the noise management ‘bible’ published.
l The Executive consulted on the guide last year, responses were generally positive and can be viewed on http://www.scotland.gov.uk/publications/2006/05/11092626/0.

Horn costs vastly outweigh benefits
Costs and benefits of train horns have been analysed by Alaska scientists.

Reading: case closed
Reading Council has decided not to appeal against a court judgement that obliged it to pay for a resident’s double glazing to cut traffic noise. In March 2005 resident

NI complaints rise
New statistics reveal that noise complaints have risen in Northern Ireland by 13% in 2005/06 compared to the previous year.
l The report can be viewed at www.ehsni.gov.uk/environment/noise/noisestats.shtml

Money to tackle minimotos
Home secretary John Reid has announced that £200,000 funding will be made available to local authorities to tackle noisy minimotos.

Open air music events too noisy
Noise levels at open air pop events are well above action levels and few staff appear to wear protection, a Health and Safety Executive investigation in Scotland has revealed.
l Assessment of noise exposure to various persons working at T in the Park can be viewed on www.hse.gov.uk/research/hsl_pdf/2006/hsl0662.pdf?ebul=hsegen/07-AUG-06&cr=05

Noisy playground expansion refused
A long running planning battle between residents and a local school about playground noise has finally been resolved.

Bradshaw urged to resist budget cuts
Three noise groups have come together to urge noise minister Ben Bradshaw to resist cuts to noise policy budgets.

Quieter tyres yield huge benefits
Quieter tyres would yield benefits ten times greater than the costs, a TRL report suggests.
l Tyre/road noise: assessment of the existing and proposed tyre noise limits, Greg Watts et al, Report number PPR077 is available from Janet Brown TRL Publications Unit 01344 770297

Bristol studies air link
Bristol City Council has embarked on a project to map environmental noise which may be affected by the introduction of a low emission zone (LEZ) in the city.
l www.silence-ip.org

HA noise target met
The Highways Agency 2005/06 annual report says the agency met its target for treating roads with quieter surfaces.
l The annual report can be viewed on www.highways.gov.uk/

Stokenchurch worst
Stokenchurch is the worst location studied in a noise review of the M40 motorway, a TRL report produced for the Highways Agency suggests.
l An assessment of noise hotspots alongside the M4 can be viewed on www.highways.gov.uk/roads/documents/M40_Hotspot_Report.pdf

‘Young’ acousticians sought
The Institute of Acoustics, is inviting nominations for its Tyndall Medal for 2008.
l Nomination detailshttp://www.ioa.org.uk/viewnews.asp?newsID=59, closing date 31 October 2006.

No more flights
The Government has confirmed it will not attempt to reintroduce relaxations on movements limits for night flights at London airports.

Hot debate
Tensions between councils and noise consultants will be explored in a debate being organised by the Institute of Acoustics Central Branch.
l www.ioa.org.uk

Website review
We've been visiting noise websites and have ranked about one hundred - here's a taster: )

Non local authority sites:
1st Don’t lose the music www.dontlosethemusic.com
2nd Noise Concern www.noiseconcern.org
3rd National Society for Clean Air www.nsca.org.uk
4th Noise Action Week www.noiseactionweek.org.uk
5th Health & Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk/noise/index.htm
6th Hepworth Acoustics www.hepworth-acoustics.co.uk
7th Mel Kenyon’s Noisenet www.noisenet.org
8th IAC www.iacl.co.uk/uk/index.htm
9th Stop Stansted Expansion Campaign www.stopstanstedexpansion.com
10th Institute of Acoustics www.ioa.org.uk

Local authority sites (interactive links coming)
1st London Borough of Westminster
2nd Cambridge City Council
3rd London Borough of  Southwark
4th Lancaster City Council
5th Stratford on Avon District Council
6th Ashfield District Council
7th London Borough of Greenwich
8th Swansea City Council
9th Woking Borough Council
10th London Borough of Brent

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July 2006 headlines (issue 4)

Pub noise regs proposed
Defra is consulting on regulations that can be used to control adhoc noise from pubs and clubs. New regulations have been prompted by the Licensing Act that allows pubs and clubs to open later.
l The consultation is available at: www.defra.gov.uk/ corporate/consult/ noiseact-guidance.

Noiseconcern launch
Environmental charity Encams is launching its Noiseconcern campaign aimed at noisemakers.
l www.noiseconcern.org

Police abandon car exhaust enforcement?
A Hampshire resident has been told by police that there will be no police action taken on excessively loud vehicle exhausts.

Two councils criticised
Sedgemoor District Council failed to enforce planning conditions at a pub skittle alley, and has been told to pay £3,000 to the complainant for unnecessary noise nuisance. Meanwhile in a separate ruling, Breckland Council failed to consider noise nuisance from a skate park at the planning stage.

Edinburgh gets tough on noisy aircraft
Aircraft that break stated noise limits are to be fined under plans unveiled by Edinburgh Airport.

Footpath closure key to tackling train horns?
Faced with both a private and local authority nuisance prosecution, Network Rail has agreed to consider closing foot crossings at Ardleigh in Essex to reduce nuisance from sounding of train horns.

Juggling noise and climate change stresses
The need to combat climate change impacts can conflict with the need to ensure houses are quiet, last month’s IoA research conference held in Birmingham was told. Glazing standards appear to be inadequate to prevent noise disturbance.

Planning burden lifted for wind turbines
England has followed on from Scotland in its push to encourage domestic power generation. Householders will be given permitted development rights to make it easier to install wind turbines without the need for planning permission (Noise Bulletin June p3). It is claimed that such turbines do not cause a noise nuisance.

Village hall event cap retained
A cap of 12 events a year has been retained for events held at village halls under temporary events notices.
Air research fillip
Europe is spending more money on aeronautics research, including ambitious targets for cutting plane noise.
l http://ec.europa.eu/ research/future

Breckland wind fall
Breckland Council has been told by a government inspector to pay costs following loss of a planning appeal on wind turbines.

Bus quality move
Guidance has been issued by the DfT on how quality bus partnerships can work. Local authorities can use such partnerships to include conditions on bus contracts to clean up noise and emissions. l www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/ groups/dft_localtrans/documents/page/dft_localtrans_611921.hcsp

AVT wins approval
AV Technology has gained UKAS accreditation for pre-completion testing of new houses (for airborne and impact noise).l www.avtechnology.co.uk

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June 2006 headlines (issue 3)

Surprise as LAeq judged best
Experts reacted with surprise to news that the absolute LAeq metric has proved the best measure for judging one-off entertainment noise disturbance.

Neighbour noise advert campaign nears
Encams is to launch a new publicity campaign on neighbourhood noise next month. Faced with complaints from existing noise pressure groups, it has agreed to fund extra telephone support at the Noise Abatement Society.

Griffiths splits from Capita
Five consultants have split from Capita Symonds to set up Vanguardia Consulting.
website www.vanguardia consulting.co.uk

No funds for noise consultation
A planned consultation meeting on the noise strategy is being postponed due to lack of funds.

Footpath closures avoid horn nuisance?
Railway infrastructure owner Network Rail has been served a second nuisance notice because of train horn noise at Ardleigh in Essex.

News from the IOa research Conference held in Birmingham

BRE lists hotspot benefits
The Highways Agency ‘hotspots’ programme is having some success at reducing noise. However the programme is much reduced in scope compared to recent years.

Rail roughness to be added to CRN method
IoA delegates heard that rail roughness factors must be used to make the standard Calculation of Rail Noise (CRN) methodology more accurate.

Insulation probe call
Leading noise medic Stephen Stansfeld says research into sound insulation in schools is urgently needed.

Halving noise ‘on the cards’
Mike Swanyck of aircraft engine m