The Mayor's Ambient Noise Strategy - Greater London Authority

186 Mayor of London
The Mayor’s Ambient Noise Strategy
be considered as well as open spaces. It is also important to consider
features of positive soundscape interest (see paragraph 4F.26), which may
constitute ‘soundmarks’ (see glossary). Area-wide noise mapping could
become a more popular and accessible tool if supplemented by
measurement and attitude surveys, including engaging people in the
identification of sound features they value positively, as well as ‘relative
quiet.’ Having full regard to the needs of other noise-sensitive uses, and
local play and community access, exploration of the value of designating
‘Areas of Relative Tranquillity or Special Soundscape Interest’ is
encouraged, although they are not, at this stage, included as a London
Plan policy 34 .
4F.30 As London’s built form becomes more compact and intensive, the value of
open spaces is likely to grow, although they should not, of course, be
regarded as substitutes for good domestic noise environments. The
London Plan encourages functional and physical linkages within the
network and to the wider public realm. Green Corridors (see glossary) may
allow animals and plants to be found further into the built-up area than
would otherwise be the case and provide an extension to the habitats of
the sites they join. Green Chains (see glossary) provide landscaped routes
for pedestrians or cyclists, and may help people to gain access to more
tranquil areas when they need it, as may Greenways, or Thames Gateway’s
Green Grid. Routes and public spaces more generally can be considered in
terms of sequences of soundscapes characterised by diversity and special
local interest, including in education and public engagement, and for
visitors (see glossary under ‘soundscape’).
4F.31 Some uses of open spaces are more noise-sensitive than others. Some
recreational activities in open spaces can generate significant noise. Some
animals in open spaces may cause disturbance (e.g. peacocks). Both
natural and human-made sound levels can vary widely across the same
space, and by time of day, week and year. Noise from maintenance
activity can reduce the peace and calm of open spaces. Noise from
mowers and other mechanised equipment can be particularly annoying.
Use of some equipment, such as leaf blowers, can be substituted by
quieter methods. Where quieter equipment cannot be obtained, the noise
of some mechanised equipment can be reduced by using lower power
settings, without significantly reducing efficiency. ‘Quiet Zones’ have
been signposted in some New York Parks, offering diverse users more
choice. Park and other byelaws need to be periodically reviewed as noise
sources change.
4F.32 Well-designed hard paving is visually powerful in many parts of the public
realm. However, ‘soft ground’ and dense vegetation, where these can be