Experience with urban traffic noise maps in Czechoslovakia and German Democratic Republic

Noise mapping represents one of the valuable working tools in the implementation of communal noise abatement programs. Over the years 1965-1979 the communal noise conditions were mapped in several tens of towns, both in Czechoslovakia and GDR. In Czechoslovakia, noise mapping is based on standardized methodology of noise level measurement and on methodical guidelines for noise map construction; in GDR, unified basis is represented by provisions in execution of the law on environmental protection. The noise map data have led in many cases to revision of existing town development and transportation plans, to more accurate delimitation of urban zones, to establishment of noise-free zones, to prohibition of night-time traffic, and to acceptance of anti-noise measures at stable sources of communal noise. Decisive for the effective use of urban noise maps is, as a rule, the quality of accompanying written statement, the extent of cooperation with town planning and local government authorities, and whether the map had been produced in order to accomplish a clearly specified objective. However, it will take undoubtedly much more time to assess definitively the usefulness of noise mapping as a methodical tool in the control of community noise.