Pollution

Road Traffic Noise

There are few controls available to control general noise from vehicles whilst they are on the highway. This includes not only moving vehicles, but those which are standing or parked on the highway. However, it is sometimes possible to pursue complaints relating to persistent engine idling, revving, horns or music coming from particular vehicles whilst on the road.

In order for action to be taken, the person responsible for the nuisance must be identified. In addition, it is not usually possible to use this legislation to deal with one-off situations, or moving vehicles with noisy stereos. The Environmental Health Unit will make enquiries and take action if they can. They will advise complainants of the outcome of their investigation.

It is sometimes possible for other Agencies to investigate certain matters. For example, if a road is excessively used by heavy goods vehicles, the Highways Agency can be contacted for advice. Sometimes they can arrange for traffic management measures to be provided. Write to or telephone the County Surveyor at Bedfordshire County Council.

Where noise from a new or substantially altered road causes an increased level of interference to residents, grants may be available to provide sound insulation measures. These grants are administered by the Highway Authority, Bedfordshire County Council.

Excessive noise from the engine of an individual identifiable vehicle can only be controlled by the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations which are administered by the Police. Contact County Police Headquarters (Kempston) Tel. 01234 841212 for advice (not 999).

SERVICES A-Z

Noise Control

Noise
Building Site Noise
Railway Noise
Pubs and Clubs
Private Parties
Noise and the Law
National Society for Clean Air (NSCA)
Outdoor Events
Noisy Parties
Noisy Neighbours
Burglar Alarms
Car Alarms
Commercial Noise
Aircraft Noise