East Surrey MP Peter Ainsworth has today welcomed the publication of recommendations from the rail industry Train Horns Steering Group.
Responding to a motion tabled in the House of Commons by Peter Ainsworth and continued public concern at the levels of train horn noise, the rail industry established the Train Horns Steering Group. The Group has reviewed the arrangements for the use and type of train horns and published its recommendations for the rail industry to consider.
The main recommendations are:
• Introduce a night time quiet period from 2300hrs to 0700hrs, except for when drivers see people on the track or other emergencies
• Where possible, use only the ‘low tone’ at ‘whistle boards’
• For all new trains capable of speeds up to 160kph or when changing their horns, establish a lower minimum sound pressure level of 101dB, and a maximum of 106dB
• Over time, and taking account of the changes listed above, further reduce the number of whistle boards through, crossing closures, local review, challenging some of the current criteria, and adopting a new level crossing risk model
• Review and eradicate all other routine requirements to sound train horns
• The industry will continue to develop a specification for possible alternative technologies
Recommendations for a quiet period, low tone and lowering the minimum sound pressure level have already started on the rail industry’s rule change process and, subject to consultation, could be implemented as standards as early as April 2007.
Speaking on the publication of the recommendations, Peter Ainsworth said:
“This is really welcome progress and I would like to praise the industry for acknowledging their impact on neighbours and for the approach they have taken towards this issue.”
He went on to say:
“These recommendations are the result of many months of deliberation and I hope that, if implemented, they will make a practical difference to the lives of lineside residents in East Surrey and nationwide. I will continue to monitor progress and will be ready to apply further pressure when needed.”
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