Noise Barriers along Roads and Traffic Junctions

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether there will be plans to install noise barriers along roads and traffic junctions; and (b) whether the Ministry is aware of high noise levels experienced by residents at The Estuary condominium.

Mr Lui Tuck Yew: It is not practical to install noise barriers along roads and traffic junctions. Gaps will be needed in the noise barriers for bus stops, and for vehicular and pedestrian access. These gaps would render noise barriers ineffective. Pedestrian safety would also be compromised as their view of on-coming traffic could be blocked.

The Estuary meets the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s setback guideline of 15 metres from the road. However, in response to residents’ feedback on excessive road noise, the National Parks Board has planted more trees along the road fronting the condominium. The Land Transport Authority and other agencies will continue to engage the condominium management on other mitigating measures, including for them to install structures to absorb or deflect the noise.