Hope for solution to train horn noise

The Minister, Tom Harris MP, had agreed to a meeting with Mr Herbert and other MPs whose constituents are affected by train horn noise. He said that he sympathised with residents and would like to see action to alleviate the problem, provided that it did not compromise safety.

Following pressure from Mr Herbert and other MPs earlier this year, Network Rail, the Train Operating Companies and the Rail Standards and Safety Board established a cross industry Steering Group to examine the problem of train horn noise.

The group is currently evaluating options to alleviate the problem, including the installation of lower volume 'broadband' horns, a night time 'ban' on horns, and a reduction in the number of locations at which horns are sounded (whistle boards).

Although Southern has already modified the horns on all of its trains, residents say that there is no discernible difference and that the noise of horns, which can carry across the Arun valley, remains unbearable.

The Steering Group is due to report to MPs, including Nick Herbert, at a meeting on Monday 20 November. The Minister said that, although he had no direct authority over the Group, he would press it to come forward with recommendations before the end of the year.

For full story see West Sussex Gazette October 25