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UKNA SCOTLAND The Scottish branch of the UK Noise Association |
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Welcome to |
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Survey to find out which noise annoys in Scotland |
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UKNA Scotland The Scottish branch of the UK Noise Association Press Release For Immediate Release 30 October 2007 NEW WEB SITE AND SURVEY TO FIND OUT WHICH NOISE ANNOYS A new web site and survey has been launched to promote the work of UKNA Scotland. The Scottish Branch of the UK Noise Association was first launched in 2004, but despite efforts to set up a dialogue with the ruling party of the Scottish Parliament, noise was given a very low priority. So it is hoped that the elections earlier in 2007, bringing a greater mix of political parties, will mean more interest in noise issues. Early indications are that there has already been a wave of interest. Following a European Directive on noise that requires member states to provide noise maps and action plans the Scottish Parliament are already ahead of other governments and recently starting consulting on their actions plans to reduce noise. (1) England, Wales and Northern Ireland lag well behind and it has been felt they will “struggle to meet the end of the year deadline for reporting to the Commission the number of people affected by noise”. (Source: Noise Bulletin October 2007 Issue 16). UKNA Scotland’s web site will provide up to date information on what’s happening in Scotland on noise issues. But their first mission is to assess what noise issues are of greater concern to people living in Scotland. The Chair of the UKNA Scottish Branch, Professor Frank McManus, of Napier University, says: “Noise has always been seen as the forgotten pollutant, despite being a big problem for many people. The noise climate has got worse, with more cars on the road, more planes in the sky and in the home amplified equipment is ever more powerful. Alongside this we have poorly sound insulated homes and a decline in good behaviour. We will be lobbying the Scottish Parliament to take the necessary steps to improve the noise climate. We are also hoping that the new Scottish Parliament will take more interest than its predecessor. But to assist our work we need the people of Scotland to let us know what noise annoys them.” The survey will run until the end of 2007. It is simple to complete and confidential. ENDS Details of the maps can be found at: www.scottishnoisemapping.org The survey can be found at: www.UKNAScotland.org.uk Further information: Frank McManus Tel: 07957 548789 Email: Frank@UKNAScotland.org.uk |