EPA - Ireland's Environment, An Integrated Assessment - 2020

Ireland’s Environment – An Integrated Assessment 2020 Noise Action Plans for Transport Noise Sources Local authority noise action plans should identify measures to prevent and reduce transport noise and to protect quiet areas. Following the preparation of the noise maps, the relevant action planning authorities, i.e. the relevant local authorities, are required to consult with the public in the preparation of noise action plans for those areas where the noise thresholds for L den (55 dB) and L night (50 dB) are exceeded. These action plans are designed to manage transport noise issues and effects, including the prevention and reduction of environmental noise where necessary. As part of this process, each local authority identifies noise-sensitive locations. This may include drawing up a shortlist of potential areas for action, both above the recommended onset values for noise mitigation measures and below the recommended level for preservation, to help identify quiet areas. A new requirement under the European Communities (Environmental Noise) Regulations 2018 is that local authorities must report progress on their noise action plans to the EPA early each year. Each local authority is required to set out the steps that have been taken to prevent, protect against and reduce excessive transport noise, as identified in the noise action plan (Topic Box 4.3). Topic Box 4.3 Assessment of Noise Reduction Measures on the Luas Actions to reduce transport noise can range from strategic and policy solutions around mobility and urban planning to more detailed engineering solutions to reduce specific noise sources. For example, rail transport can result in some noise pollution caused by the train wheels running over the tracks. However, acoustic mitigation measures are feasible. TII undertook a small-scale experimental trial of two noise reduction systems on a section of the Luas network with slab track: un-tuned rail dampers (Photo 4.1) and absorbing rubber infill panels (Photo 4.2). These noise reduction systems were installed on separate 100 m stretches of the Luas Green Line in Dublin. Noise for the section of track installed with rail dampers decreased by approximately 2-3.5 dB, while, for the section of track installed with the absorbing rubber infill panels, tram pass-by levels decreased by approximately 2.5-4.0 dB. These findings are being used when considering acoustic mitigation measures for future Luas lines. Photo 4.1  Rail dampers on slab track Photo 4.2  Rubber mats on slab track 88