Our main contractors for the scheme, MPact-Thales, and their designers need to build up an understanding of existing noise levels in the area. This is to help with the design of new lines and tram depot for example, by influencing the type of materials used and fencing where required.
No, it doesn?t. Firstly, Metrolink trams are generally a quiet form of transport. There are several reasons for this. Metrolink trams are electrically powered and are also much lighter than, for example a heavy rail alternative. The braking system is also designed to be very quiet and energy efficient. The trams also have resilient wheels with hard rubber between the hub and the rim to help reduce any noise that the wheel might generate. The track will also be continuously welded, thereby resulting in very few joints which could generate noise or vibration. Secondly, the information from these noise surveys will help to guide the design of the new lines and depot, for example influencing the type of materials used and fencing where required.
The survey information will be used to establish an accurate understanding of noise patterns in the area. This will then be used to help design the new tram lines and depot. If necessary, this will also provide the baseline information for any before and after comparisons that may be required once the new tram lines and depot are operational.
We need to take noise measurements at regular intervals adjacent to the new lines and depot site. This is so we can establish an accurate understanding of noise patterns including any background noise (e.g. road traffic) in the area. Therefore, a number of addresses have been selected at representative points along each of the new lines to allow the surveys to be completed.
No - the addresses selected are based on getting an accurate picture of general noise patterns in the areas adjacent to the new lines and tram depot site. They are therefore selected at regular intervals along the line and adjacent to the depot site.
Only if the staff carrying out the noise surveys need to go through your property to access the garden where the equipment will be set up. If that is necessary (which may be the case with back gardens without side gates; or where those side gates are secured) then we will of course agree mutually convenient times with you.
Yes - anybody visiting your property on behalf of Metrolink will carry the relevant identification. If you have any doubts at all, please call the Metrolink helpline on 0161 244 1555.
The equipment set up at each property will be placed either in the back garden or the front garden and will remain in place, usually, for no longer than two days. If it?s a survey being done in the back garden then half an hour will be required in one day; and half an hour 24 hours later. Apart from that, the equipment will be left there for the duration of the day, but without any staff supervising it. If it is in the front garden, then staff will come round 3 or 4 times throughout the day to conduct 15 minute long readings.
We are asking a number of people in each area selected for their permission and, if more than one responds, we will then select one of them.
