Community update on action to mitigate rail noise impacts on the Waverton and Wollstonecraft railway section.
Sydney Trains operates the Sydney metropolitan rail network. The Waverton and Wollstonecraft railway section is located in a populated area, on some of the tightest curves on the network. These conditions generate high frequency rail noise when the wheel flange rubs against the rail and wheel squeal when the wheels stick and slip on the rail. fibre glass wheel
Studies and mitigation strategies over the past two decades have looked at reducing rail noise impacts for nearby residents, and the EPA has engaged with the local community, including the Waverton Wollstonecraft Rail Noise Action Group (WWRNAG).
The EPA has required Sydney Trains to take action to address noise concerns, including pollution reduction programs to identify the cause and possible mitigation methods.
In 2021, the EPA commissioned an independent rail noise specialist to conduct a review of Sydney Trains’ operation and maintenance of the rail network at Waverton and Wollstonecraft. Based on the findings, the EPA determined that
The EPA issued Sydney Trains with a Penalty Notice for failing to sufficiently maintain plant and equipment, which was a breach of their Environment Protection Licence conditions.
During 2021, Sydney Trains commissioned their own independent study of this railway section, examining rail acoustics, track engineering and wheel and rail dynamics to give further recommendations on noise mitigation measures. This report and the program of implementation was provided to the EPA in 2022.
As a result of regulatory action and studies, Sydney Trains undertook significant maintenance work, including
This work aims to mitigate noise and serves as a foundation from which further works can be conducted.
Sydney Trains is continuing to review its grinding regime to optimise the maintenance cycle. It has also identified that the shape of the rail in the area may be altered to reduce noise output and has committed to implementing these actions.
The EPA is continuing to monitor the progress of these strategies and Sydney Trains’ environmental performance.
railway abrasives Once the actions have been implemented, Sydney Trains will be required to conduct an assessment to determine their efficacy. The EPA will review the results and consider its next steps to ensure a positive outcome is achieved and maintained.