Slough has been ranked the noisiest area to live in the UK according to new figures.
This comes as the government begins a £300,000 rollout of ‘noise cameras’ that aim to penalise boy racer drivers.
Audiologists at Hearmore UK have analysed which areas of the country are the most exposed to night noise pollution, using data from the European Environmental Agency.
The figures show Slough has the highest percentage of residents exposed to dangerous levels of night noise pollution in the country.
4,200 residents, equivalent to 2.55 per cent of Slough, are regularly exposed to noise levels over 65 decibels at night, which could be contributing to disrupted sleep.
In comparison, 1.54 per cent of London residents are exposed to a dangerous range of noise pollution.
The Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) outlines 85 decibels as a harmful level, however, studies have shown that sounds as low as 65 decibels can be harmful to health.
Head of audiology at Hearmore UK Asa Richards has provided some tips for reducing the impact of noise pollution at home.
Asa suggests sleeping with white noise or pink noise.
"A white or pink noise machine layers sounds over each other across the spectrum of audible noise, creating a calming sound that has been found to help people fall asleep," he said.
"If you find white noise too harsh, pink noise is layered and can be softer on the ears."
When struggling to sleep in noisy environments, Asa recommends earplugs.
"Soft ear plugs can block the noise and can be especially effective if you know your home is exposed to road, rail or air traffic at night."
Added sound insulation in walls and windows can also make rooms quieter.
This includes adding soft wall hangings and acoustic curtains, which help to absorb more of the vibrations from the noise outside.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel