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🇧🇪 Belgium /Elections & Politics

Tram Noise Accord in Ghent Nears Completion; Solutions May Benefit All of Flanders

From VRT NWS · (8m ago) Dutch Mixed tone

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • A settlement is nearing completion in Ghent, Belgium, to address noise complaints from residents regarding squealing trams.
  • The dispute, involving residents of the Bijlokewijk neighborhood and the De Lijn transport company, has been ongoing since late last year.
  • Measures include track maintenance, speed limit enforcement, and exploring new technologies like wheel dampers and improved lubrication to mitigate the 'arc sound' issue.

Ghent, Belgium – A long-standing dispute over the persistent squealing of trams in Ghent is finally nearing a resolution, offering a glimmer of hope for residents plagued by the noise pollution. A reconciliation process, facilitated by a justice of the peace, is underway between the Bijlokewijk neighborhood residents and the De Lijn transport company, with a deadline set for October.

We see that the transport company is really taking steps. The solutions can also help reduce noise pollution in Antwerp and on the coast. That makes us very happy.

— Adelbrecht HaenebalckeA resident representative expressed satisfaction with De Lijn's efforts to resolve the tram noise issue.

Residents had lodged a formal complaint late last year, citing years of disturbance caused by the distinctive 'arc sound' – a high-pitched squeal produced by trams navigating curves and switches. The situation has prompted various hearings, and a definitive solution is now in sight, much to the relief of the affected community.

We are tackling this problem extensively and on different fronts.

— Wouter VanrenterghemA De Lijn representative highlighted the comprehensive approach to solving the tram noise problem.

Both parties express cautious optimism. Adelbrecht Haenebalcke, representing the residents, noted the implementation of special track strips, adherence to speed limits by drivers, and plans for further investment in maintenance and innovation. Wouter Vanrenterghem of De Lijn emphasized a multi-faceted approach, including accelerated replacement of noisy switches, ongoing noise measurements at key locations, and the development of a 'heatmap' to identify problem areas across Flanders, including Antwerp and the coast.

We are also rolling out a different lubricant.

— Wouter VanrenterghemDe Lijn is experimenting with new lubricants to reduce tram noise.

De Lijn is also considering advanced monitoring equipment for trams and exploring new lubrication methods and fixed lubrication systems. The potential for these solutions to benefit other regions, such as Antwerp and the Belgian coast, highlights the broader applicability of the findings. A test with a wheel damper is planned for the coast, and De Lijn is reviewing specifications for new vehicles to incorporate better soundproofing. This collaborative effort, extending to knowledge sharing with other transport companies, signifies a commitment to addressing the issue comprehensively. Residents, however, continue to advocate for a clear, ongoing commitment from De Lijn and are also seeking a reduction in night-time tram traffic.

We appreciate these efforts very much and are happy that they could also have an impact elsewhere.

— Adelbrecht HaenebalckeA resident representative acknowledged the potential of the solutions to benefit other regions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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