A BIZARRE ‘catch-22’ situation has led to a swing bridge at Penarth Marina being closed – because safety regulations fall foul of noise nuisance regulations.
Maintained and operated by Quay Marinas, the bridge must emit an audible warning when it is raised or lowered to comply with regulations.
However, the volume required has been declared a noise nuisance for nearby residents – so the system can’t be used. As a result, the Vale Council has closed the bridge.
A council spokesperson said: “Multiple experts have explored using a range of systems in an effort to reopen the bridge, but this has proved unsuccessful, as none could function within accepted noise levels.
“That means the bridge, which has been shut since 2016, will now be closed permanently.
“However, there is another marina crossing located close by which visitors can use safely.”
Photo: Vale Council.
Cllr Ruba Sivagnanam, the council cabinet member for Community Engagement, Equalities and Regulatory Services, said: “In order for the swing bridge to operate safely, a loud alarm must be sounded when it is opened or shut to alert pedestrians and cyclists.
“Unfortunately, despite thorough investigation, it is not possible to introduce such a system without causing a significant disturbance to residents living in the vicinity.
“Assessments carried out by council officers indicated these people would be significantly affected by such an alarm and that this would constitute a noise nuisance.
“To protect these people, and the wider public means this bridge cannot reopen.”
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