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Feasibility study on retrofitting noise mitigation measures on existing roads
Following is a question by the Hon Albert Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
In May last year, I wrote a letter to the Planning, Environment and Lands Branch concerning the abatement of road traffic noise, and I was subsequently advised in writing by the Branch that the Environmental Protection Department had commissioned a territory-wide consultancy study to assess the feasibility of implementing remedial road traffic noise mitigation measures. As the study has now been completed, will the Government inform this Council:
(a)
(b)
(c)
of the roads listed by the consultancy firm as requiring the implementation of noise mitigation works, and of the expected commencement dates of such works;
as it is learnt that the consultancy firm has recommended in its report that noise mitigation works should be carried out in three stages, of the expected commencement dates of the works in the second stage covering Tuen Mun Road and Cheung Pei Shan Road; and
when the measures on the abatement of road traffic noise currently in force will be reviewed?
Reply:
Mr President,
First of all, I would like to clarify the scope and objectives of the consultancy study which is the subject of this question. The consultancy study is on the feasibility of retrofitting noise mitigation measures on existing roads. It comprises two parts. The first is a desk-top review based on available traffic data and physical constraints such as space and fire fighting requirements in order to assess the practicability of It was completed in installing noise barriers or enclosures on the noisy roads.
December 1995. Of some 740 road sections reviewed, 16 have been selected for detailed engineering investigations. The second part of the study focuses on these 16 road sections and aims to establish technical feasibility in terms of safety, public It commenced in disturbance, maintenance, cost requirements and effectiveness. October 1996 and is scheduled for completion in mid 1998. With regard to the specific questions raised -