Risk news

Imposing lower speed limits on roads across the country could help to reduce current levels of noise pollution facing nearby residents and businesses.

This is according to a study carried out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), which looked at the best ways for road and rail operators to deal with noise in the 23 largest urban areas, as well as near major highways.

Local authorities will look into the evidence provided by the report and suggest measures which can be implemented to lower noise pollution.

These could include lower speed limits, installing sound barriers alongside roads and laying better road surfaces.

"Noise pollution can have a real impact on people's lives and their health," said environment minister Jim Fitzpatrick. "We're asking for local solutions to make sure the effects of noise are properly managed."

Defra has explained that increasing noise can interrupt conversations, disturb sleep and in extreme circumstances can even cause physical harm.

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