RESIDENTS are one step closer to respite from rail noise following the release of a long-awaited draft ‘noise plan’.
The state government’s ‘draft passenger rail infrastructure noise policy’ includes “investigation thresholds” for passenger rail infrastructure of 85 decibels.
Current noise levels along the Sunshine to Deer Park corridor already exceed the flagged trigger point, making it likely noise abatement measures will be incorporated into Regional Rail Link (RRL) works.
Sunshine to Deer Park Action Group member Larissa Stewart welcomed the draft policy but wants it to be applied to existing infrastructure and not just future works.
“It looks very good in essence, but we want to know how it will be applied to the current infrastructure as it stands because noise levels are already extremely high,” she said.
“It’s not enough to just improve noise on future works; it has to be fixed on work that has already been done.”
Ms Stewart said she had discussed the policy with the Fair-go for Footscray Rail Residents group and members had the same questions for the state government.
She said the Sunshine to Deer Park committee would meet next week to discuss the policy.
The investigation thresholds will not limit noise to a maximum level. Steps to cut noise experienced by residents could include double glazing or construction of barriers or cuttings.
An RRL Authority spokeswoman said the policy would apply once finalised.
“The authority will ensure that any additional noise mitigation resulting from application of the policy will be able to be incorporated into the project.”
Transport Minister Terry Mulder said the policy was in draft form awaiting community and stakeholder input.
“We expect the final policy to be released by the end of 2012,” he said.
Western Metropolitan Greens MP Colleen Hartland said noise levels already exceeded threshold levels.
“Maximum noise levels of 90-95 decibels are predicted along the rail corridor to Deer Park,” she said.
“The community has been waiting for action on noise mitigation since the RRL project was announced. This policy confirms it’s time to get on with the job.”
The report has been released as construction work officially begins on the Footscray to Deer Park section of the RRL project.
Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese last week joined Gellibrand MP Nicola Roxon and Mr Mulder to mark the start of construction on the 7.5-kilometre section.
