In responding to the soundscape recommendations of the Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill, the Welsh Government have accepted a number of recommendations in line with evidence given by the IOA to the Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee.
These include:
- Confirming that the Welsh Government can commit to actively involving key stakeholders in the preparation and review of the National Soundscapes Strategy.
- Agreeing that expert advice on soundscapes should be sought. It is uncertain whether the cost of setting up an advisory group would be justified, however the current consultation on the Noise and Soundscape Plan 2023-2028 asks a question on this (closes 2 October). In addition, the the UK Government’s response to the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee’s recent recommendation to establish an interdisciplinary, independent advisory panel for noise, will be monitored, as there may be potential for some UK-wide joint working.
- A definition of soundscape is required, and should be in the Explanatory Memorandum rather than on the face of the Bill to allow flexibility
See the full report here – soundscape recommendations at 32 - 35
