New audio analyser will help curb exhaust noise

Essex Police has introduced a new gadget to deal with anti-social behaviour caused by nuisance cars.

Roads policing officers are being issued with audio analysers designed to measure the output from noisy exhausts to help prosecute or even take anti-social drivers off the roads of Essex.

The introduction of NTI Audio Analysers is expected to help officers deal effectively with noise pollution from vehicles in known problem areas, such as the area around Lakeside Shopping Centre and Southend seafront.

A number of road policing officers have already been trained to use the specialist device which can provide evidence to back up their testimonies in court.

Road Policing Sergeant Simon Willsher said: “Drivers need to be aware of the consequences of their anti-social behaviour and consider the impact of their actions to residents and local people. Offending will land anti-social drivers in court.

“Anti-social driving is consistently a cause of frustration within our communities. We can use these sound kits to reassure the public and demonstrate the police action when complaints about anti-social driving are received. We also aim to use these sound meters in a targeted manner on operations and events to deal effectively with offending motorists.”

The vast majority of large or big bore exhausts are illegal for use on public roads. The police added that the fact they may have passed an MOT test is irrelevant as this only checks for exhaust gasses and emission legislation compliance.