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<p>Under the UK Marine Strategy, the UK Government is working to ensure underwater
noise generating human activities do not pose a significant risk to marine ecosystems.
We currently have a limited understanding of the distribution of noise in UK seas
and its impact on vulnerable species. To address this in relation to sources of continuous
noise such as shipping, the UK has established a noise monitoring network, consisting
of long term monitoring stations deployed in coastal waters. The information from
this monitoring network will be matched with species distributions and used to inform
future policy.</p><p> </p><p>In order to reduce impacts, developments such as offshore
wind farms are required to have pre and post consent monitoring plans which are managed
by the Marine Management Organisation. For example, a Marine Mammal Mitigation Plan
lists the appropriate mitigation measures that should be utilised during offshore
activities that are likely to produce underwater noise and vibration levels capable
of potentially causing injury and disturbance to marine mammals. Government departments
including Defra and BEIS are working together to look at how underwater noise can
be managed more strategically to reduce harm.</p><p> </p><p>On land, the Government
is committed to ensuring that noise is managed effectively in order to promote good
health and quality of life. We have protections in place to avoid significant noise
impacts through our planning system, our environmental permitting systems, in vehicle
and product standards, and noise abatement legislation. Defra works with other Government
departments whose policies could potentially impact on noise levels.</p><p> </p><p>National
Planning Policy Guidance sets out requirements for noise to be considered for new
developments with particular consideration given to development affecting designated
sites. Our network of designated sites are afforded the highest level of protection.
Planning authorities must consider the potential impact of activities and works on
or near these sites before granting consent. Noise may also be considered for certain
types of development requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment.</p>
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