HC Deb 20 December 1971 vol 828 cc1089-90
4. Mr. Michael Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he intends taking to protect people living adjacent to Eastern Avenue from environmental damage in terms of noise, fumes and visual intrusion.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I am very conscious of these problems. The walls, fences and railings which have been provided on Eastern Avenue, as part of the accommodation works, should help to reduce visual intrusion. Studies are currently being undertaken nationally into ways of reducing the effects of traffic noise in urban areas.

Mr. Roberts

While I welcome the action that has been taken, because a thorough investigation is obviously necessary, may I ask the Minister whether he is aware that sound level readings indicate noise levels far in excess of the recommendations of the Wilson Committee of 1963—that is, far in excess of the standards acceptable in London? In view of the intolerable nuisance for my constituents, will he give me an assurance that he will treat this matter with the utmost urgency?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I note what my hon. Friend says and I can certainly give him the assurance that the Government are looking at this urgently. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment will be making a statement after the Government's studies have been completed.

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