The noise pollution in our cities generated by motorised traffic impacts on the quality of life of residents and visitors

Noise can cause or bring about disturbance to work, relaxation and sleep; mental stress; and in severe cases physical problems such as chronic exhaustion, high blood pressure and heart disease. In urban environments, road traffic is the most important single source of community noise. (Source: RACV)

Urban planning which reduces the need for travel, improved facilities for cycling and walking and enhanced public transport is a important factor which can decrease the need to travel by car and improve our communities quality of life.

There is international evidence which suggests that human-scale towns and compact cycling and walking friendly town centres are creating communities that are more liveable. Improved town planning can also make retail areas more prosperous by boosting sales turn over and increasing the value of properties.