The Mayor's Ambient Noise Strategy - Greater London Authority

82 Mayor of London
The Mayor’s Ambient Noise Strategy
those who need to make them, but seeks to ensure that associated
impacts are minimised.
Box 29: London Lorry Ban
The Mayor’s Transport Strategy (paragraph 4K.15) considered two
perspectives from which there was a case for reviewing the London
Lorry Ban:
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Operation and administration needed re-examining in the context of
the exempt network, (including the interface with the Transport for
London Road Network), the proposed introduction of a Central
London Congestion Charge, and the possible introduction of one or
more Low Emissions Zones (see paragraph 3.41 above).
Environmental criteria needed looking at, given improvements in
environmental performance since the scheme was introduced.
4A.50 Review of the London Lorry Ban, proposed in the Mayor’s Transport
Strategy, has been taking place in partnership with the Association of
London Government and London boroughs. It includes assessment of
noise implications. New heavy goods vehicles have become quieter in
terms of the ‘drive by’ type approval test, although this does not mean
that overall noise in use has necessarily fallen by a similar amount.
Average noise levels and the number of lorry movements can both be
sensitive issues for residents. Road surface condition in particular needs to
be addressed to avoid annoying noise and vibration events. A gas spark
ignition engine can be much quieter than a conventional diesel
compression ignition engine. Vehicles can also be further quietened.
Ancillary equipment and many detailed noise issues need to be addressed.
Good environmental performance implies an attention to noise at all
stages of a trip, especially loading and unloading - where it is typically
local planning conditions which prohibit or restrict night-time deliveries,
rather than the ‘Lorry Ban’. New forms of enforcement could be
considered. For example, in-service night noise testing could play a role,
including provisional identification of vehicles on the road for subsequent
detailed noise testing. Demands for night movement must be balanced
with residents’ concerns.
proposal 11 The review by the Association of London Government, boroughs and
Transport for London of aspects of the London Lorry Ban (as proposed in
the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, Proposal 4K.3) will include and take
account of noise assessment, having full regard to potential effects on
residents along with wider strategic transport and environmental concerns.