Recent reports state that Gatwick Airport is hoping to appease local people affected by noise emitted from the airport with a £1 million new monitoring system.
Here we look at what this means for the local community.
The airport has invested in new technology which aims to dramatically improve the monitoring of flights and associated noise. The data is updated every second so local residents can access information and generate reports when they want, via a website - which is expected to go live in the next few months – an app and a dedicated phone line. Noise complaints can be submitted via an automated telephone line which was a key request from the local community.
Up to 23 new noise monitoring terminals will be introduced in surrounding areas to collate noise levels. This can be presented in real time alongside flight information from the airport radar and other airport systems. The technology helps to improve accessibility to noise information. The airport hopes it will “improve understanding among local communities” by providing “one of the most accurate and up-to-date” noise and flight data systems.
Airlines can also use the information to analyse their performance in terms of track keeping and noise. Tim Norwood, director of corporate affairs, planning and sustainability at Gatwick, said: “While many thousands of local people benefit from Gatwick’s jobs, connections and wealth creation, we know that some residents are concerned by the impacts of aircraft noise. “The new noise and flight track keeping system means that residents can more easily and conveniently access information, and generate reports, on aircraft noise in real time. “The system is comprehensive, easy to use, and is based on the latest technology and we very much hope that it also helps us to improve our engagement with communities that are negatively impacted by aircraft noise.”
Sound advice
As people become more aware of the negative effects noise pollution can have, complaints rise. This is why noise mitigation should not be ignored.
Here at Echo Barrier, we know how important it is to reduce the disruption caused by noise. Our award-winning acoustic barriers can reduce noise pollution from construction sites, demolition, rail works and live events, by up to 97%. And being lightweight, weatherproof and adaptable to any setting means there will be a product available that suits your needs. If you need some advice, please contact us on 0845 561 3246 or via the website to discuss.