HC Deb 16 December 1997 vol 303 c149W
43. Mr. Paice

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proposals he has for noise reduction measures on existing roads. [19438]

Dr. Strang

There are several alternative approaches for reducing the noise of traffic on existing roads which need to be considered more fully. Tackling the problem of traffic noise will be an important element in our Integrated Transport policy which will be published as a White Paper next year.

46. Fiona Mactaggart

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to provide assistance to people who are subject to the effects of transport noise. [19441]

Dr. Strang

The adverse impacts of transport noise are an important concern for Government. There have been significant reductions in the noise from new road vehicles and aircraft, which have led to marked improvements in the noise climate, although in the longer term projections suggest that without further improvements, previous reductions in noise from vehicles would be offset in many areas by traffic growth. We are considering policies on noise as an important strand in the development of our Integrated Transport Policy, on which we will be publishing a White Paper next year.

52. Mr. Fallon

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make provisions in the Highways Agency budget to provide greater soundproofing of existing motorways. [19447]

Dr. Strang

There are several approaches to reducing the noise of traffic on existing roads which need to be considered more fully. Tackling the problem of traffic noise will be an important element in our integrated transport policy which will be published as a White Paper next year.