Why no 2-tone?

[W230]

I thought a lot of complaints had come about due to the so called "new horns" installed in more recently built classes being louder. I don't know that they are louder, though a 377 does sound much louder than a 319. Can't think why else it would have recently become a problem. I was quite impressed with NR trying to be a good neighbour policy, not sure I would have been so understanding with the residents.

On the Swanley - Sevenoaks (via Otley) route we were told when route learning that a Whistle board had been removed due to complaints from residents. No idea if it was true though.

 

[A-driver]

I thought a lot of complaints had come about due to the so called "new horns" installed in more recently built classes being louder. I don't know that they are louder, though a 377 does sound much louder than a 319. Can't think why else it would have recently become a problem. I was quite impressed with NR trying to be a good neighbour policy, not sure I would have been so understanding with the residents.

On the Swanley - Sevenoaks (via Otley) route we were told when route learning that a Whistle board had been removed due to complaints from residents. No idea if it was true though.

As far as I remember from my traction training, 377s were built with louder horns (hence the yard whistle installed) but following complaints they reduced the volume on them. Same with 365s and 317s which have been reduced. There is a 317 knocking about on the GN with a non-reduced horn and it is certainly noticeable louder than the others, especially with the cab window open.

I don't doubt whistle boards have been removed after complaints or by residents themselves. I know many locations where this has happened. Green lane crossing and the other one down there (old route knowledge is fading fast!) between cheam & ewell east used to have boards but the residents started nicking it every time NR replaced it so they have up in the end and stopped replacing it. I always hooted loudly every time I approached the crossings though just to acknowledge the residents concerns! They are busy crossings with dog walkers to.

 

[83G/84D]

On a Safety Brief I attended recently it was mentioned that the use of single tone only was being reviewed by RAIB / Network Rail in response to previous incidents primarily when there was a near miss involving crossing users at "Occupation/Accommodation " type crossings.

 

[jon0844]

the residents started nicking it every time NR replaced it so they have up in the end and stopped replacing it.

I'd have thought such a board could help save a life, and anyone found taking a sign would be dealt with something along the lines of endangering life. And jailed, or given a suspended sentence at the very least.

I'm disappointed NR would capitulate and not set up a covert observation to catch the people responsible.

On a Safety Brief I attended recently it was mentioned that the use of single tone only was being reviewed by RAIB / Network Rail in response to previous incidents primarily when there was a near miss involving crossing users at "Occupation/Accommodation " type crossings.

That would be good. Any noise that can instantly be recognised as a train would surely be better than the concerns of residents - although if any adjustments to the volume can be made and still be deemed safe, then of course do that.