Loud cars keep you up at night? Get in touch with the EPA ahead of its Wollongong noise camera trial

Wollongong has been selected as a trial location for cameras, in an effort to crack down on noisy cars. Photo: File.

Bit too much “vroom vroom” when you’re trying to get some much-needed shuteye?

The NSW Labor Government says it’s taking action to end that by following through on an election commitment to trial noise cameras and crack down on cars that disturb local communities.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will soon trial the cameras in Wollongong and Bayside in response to community concerns about the impact of noisy vehicles.

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said the impact of noisy drivers had far-reaching effects.

“The impact of antisocial and vehicle-noise related ‘hooning’ on residents in the Wollongong community should not be underestimated,” he said.

“With police resources being used first in the pursuit of criminal activity the trial of noise camera technology adds to the options available to reduce the impact of noisy vehicles.

“I look forward to this important trial beginning in Wollongong, and I encourage all residents to provide their feedback to the EPA so we can make sure we gather strong evidence on the effectiveness of this new technology.”

The EPA plans to test the moveable cameras at several locations.

If you think your area is a hotspot for nuisance cars, you can let the EPA know.

Residents can make suggestions on where the cameras should be trialled via the EPA’s website ahead of the trial, due to start in the coming months.

Vehicle noise cameras are an emerging technology being tested in various formats in major cities around the world, including in London, Paris and New York.

In NSW, the EPA works in partnership with councils, NSW Police and NSW Roads and Maritime Services to enforce noise control regulations.

Residents can provide input on the trial on the EPA website, or report noise pollution through the Make a report service.

Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said the trial would put hoons on notice.

“The NSW Government has heard the community’s concerns about noisy vehicles and is committed to sourcing and testing the most effective methods to deter antisocial behaviour on our roads,” she said.

“Work is underway to test noise cameras in communities fed up with noisy vehicles, and we invite all residents to have their say and play a key role in the trials.”