MP wins victory over train horn noise nuisance

Local MP Tim Farron has been given assurances by Transport Minister Derek Twigg that a partial solution is in sight to reduce the noise nuisance created by trains as they arrive at Windermere station - trains hoot three times within 185 metres on their way into the station, and again on their way out. Residents of Droomer Stile and Ghyll Road had contacted Tim asking him to step in and help.

In his response to Tim, Derek Twigg said: "I can confirm that Network Rail will remove two of the six whistleboards. A third whistleboard is the subject of an on-going survey."

Speaking after receiving the letter, Tim said: "I am glad that we have been able to reduce the number of times that train horns will be sounded on the approach to Windermere, and therefore reduce the disturbance to local residents. Trains' sounding their horns is an important safety feature on our railways, but there are occasions like this one where they go over the top.

"I am also pleased to be able to report that Network Rail is in the process of having a wider review of how train horns are used, which might result in further improvements on the Windermere branch line. More directional sounds, and other methods like warning lights would be a big improvement for local residents - and I will continue to press for continuing improvements."