Yesterday I counted 19 incredibly loud exhaust sounds in just 12 hours … this has got to stop. 

Studies consistently highlight that noise is a significant contributor to stress, exacerbating the pressures already faced in urban areas. Our cities are burdened with high levels of noise pollution, impacting both residents and the environment negatively. This petition calls for urgent action to address the increasing issue of loud motorbikes and cars, a growing nuisance due to fewer traffic police officers as a result of government budget cuts.

Current regulations in the UK and EU deem a car engine to be noisy if it exceeds sound levels of 72 decibels (dB). There are plans to further reduce this limit to 68 dB by 2026 for most new passenger cars. Additionally, modifying a vehicle's exhaust to increase noise is illegal, yet enforcement is lacking.

The absence of a strong police presence to enforce these laws has led to a rise in noisy vehicles, disturbing the peace and contributing to urban stress. This noise pollution not only affects people but also causes anxiety in pets and wildlife, disrupting their natural habitats and behaviors.

Reintroducing fines for vehicles that break noise regulations could serve dual purposes. It would help curb this growing issue while also generating additional revenue for the government. Other ways to tackle this without much extra financing could include 1. traffic wardens equipped with the ability to issue fines through photographing number plates. 2. vehicles MOTs could have to state the exhaust’s sound decibels. 3. Sound ‘cameras’ installed in hot spot areas. There are ways we can deter against modifying exhaust systems illegally and operating excessively noisy vehicles, but at the moment nothing is being done and the noise is ever increasing.

Action is needed to restore local peace and improve the quality of life in our communities for both people and animals. Demand that local authorities and police forces prioritise this issue by reinstating fines and enforcing existing laws on vehicle noise. 

Sign this petition to urge the government to take concrete action against noise pollution from motorbikes and cars, for a quieter and healthier environment for all.