The Mayor's Ambient Noise Strategy - Greater London Authority

The Mayor’s Ambient Noise Strategy Mayor of London 131
been operating fully for an adequate period following runway
refurbishment. If assessment so indicates, full easterly preference should
be introduced for such landings, subject to consultation, and to no
scheduling of departures during the relevant time of operation.
Ground noise and surface access
4C.27 As well as noise from aircraft taking off and landing, noise can be
generated from use of reverse thrust to slow the aircraft on the runway
during landing, as well as engine testing, taxiing, and the use of auxiliary
power units, affecting local areas around airports. For example, the use of
reverse thrust at sensitive times is required to be kept to a minimum at
Heathrow. Control of ground noise is the responsibility of the airport
operator. The use of auxiliary power units on aircraft has been restricted,
following provision of fixed electrical ground power to most stands. A
number of controls limit ground engine testing at night. Between 2300
and 0700, all high power runs must be carried out inside one of the
ground run pens, where noise is attenuated by barriers. Noise barriers
have been provided at other locations.
4C.28 Noise and other pollution from road traffic around airports is a growing
issue. As passenger throughput at Heathrow has grown, road traffic and
public transport use have also grown. The Mayor’s Air Quality Strategy
and the National Air Quality Strategy 26 recognise the significance of road
traffic around Heathrow and the impact it has on local air quality. With
the approval of Terminal Five, passenger numbers are expected to grow
from 64 million in 2000 to between 80 and 100 million. About a third of
passengers use public transport, with a BAA/Heathrow target of 40% by
2007, and 50% as a longer term vision.
4C.29 Through the Transport Strategy, the Mayor is proposing improved public
transport to Heathrow, most importantly by building a new east-west rail
link, Crossrail, to connect Heathrow with the City and East London.
Transport for London will work with BAA/Heathrow and the Heathrow
Area Transport Forum to seek the implementation of further measures to
increase the use of sustainable travel in West London. The provision of
sustainable public transport access for passengers and workers will
continue to be an important factor influencing the Mayor’s position on
airport development.
4C.30 The Mayor made clear his view that in the event of Government giving
approval to Heathrow Terminal Five, additional public transport facilities
should be provided to support at least a 50% modal share for air
passengers, and at least 25% by airport employees. The Government’s
approval has been made conditional on the Piccadilly Line and Heathrow