Overview

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to classify aircraft noise as a statutory nuisance if it's prejudicial to health. The Secretary of State will determine the specific noise levels constituting a nuisance, based on medical evidence, and these levels will be set through regulations requiring parliamentary approval.

Description

The Statutory Nuisance (Aircraft Noise) Bill aims to tackle excessive aircraft noise. Key changes include:

• Amendment to the Environmental Protection Act 1990: The bill adds aircraft noise as a type of statutory nuisance under Section 79 of the Act, enabling legal action against excessive noise.
• Secretary of State's Duty: The Secretary of State is tasked with defining the specific noise levels that qualify as a health-prejudicial nuisance. This will be done via regulations.
• Regulatory Process: Regulations determining noise levels require parliamentary approval. Medical evidence supporting the Secretary of State's determination must be presented to Parliament alongside the proposed regulations.
• Phased Implementation: The bill has a phased rollout. The amendment to the Environmental Protection Act comes into force one year after the bill's passage, while the Secretary of State's regulations come into effect three months later.
• Geographical Extent: The Act applies to England, Wales, and Scotland.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any changes to government spending. However, the cost of implementing and enforcing the new regulations (including the Secretary of State's determination and potential legal challenges) may lead to increased government expenditure, though exact figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Residents near airports: They may benefit from reduced noise pollution and the possibility of legal recourse against excessive aircraft noise.
• Airlines and Airports: They may face increased costs associated with compliance with new noise regulations and potential legal action from affected residents.
• The Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs: Responsible for defining noise levels and overseeing the implementation of regulations.
• Courts and Local Authorities: May see an increase in cases related to aircraft noise nuisance.

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