READERS may be interested to know of a debate taking place in the villages east of Okehampton. It concerns excessive noise from the A30. The main source of the noise is the concrete sections of carriageway. Concrete roads are notorious for their ability to amplify engine and tyre noise. This, combined with a 40% rise in traffic levels over the last five years, has turned the volume up to a deafening pitch. The problem is sadly due to get worse. Add in the conservative projection of a further 40% rise in traffic levels over the coming five years, by Catherine Willey of the Highways Agency, and we have a recipe for catastrophe within an area once prized for its rural peace and tranquillity, including northern parts of Dartmoor National Park. Efforts to remedy this situation are presently centred on convincing Dartmoor National Park Authority to take a lead on the issue. The DNPA has no policy with regards the abatement of road noise. They do however have leverage with the Highways Agency. The Highways Agency is what is called a ?relevant authority? under section 62 of the 1995 Environment Act. All such relevant authorities have a statutory duty to have regard for national park purposes in the exercise of their functions. Defra has even issued guidance to encourage greater recognition and compliance with these duties. Whilst the adoption of a low road noise policy by the Park will not require the Highways Agency to resurface the road, it is a strong point of persuasion. The stated purpose of the DNPA is ?to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park; and to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the area?s special qualities. In pursuing these purposes the authority has a duty to foster the economic and social well being of the local community?. This statement gives more than enough authority to make policy on road noise. Future DNPA policy should aim to encourage the Highways Agency to commit firstly to a date, or timescale, for resurfacing. Secondly, and most crucially, to resurface the A30, along the entire northern boundary of the National Park, with materials that will generate the lowest possible noise. Drafting such a policy may not bring immediate results, but it will provide permanent pressure where it is needed. A show of support is vital. Everyone in the Okehampton area who values the peace of their surroundings should therefore write to Nick Atkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Dartmoor National Park. He can be contacted at: DNPA, Parke, Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ13 9J or email [email protected]">[email protected] Giles Healy Woodball South Tawton
