The M4 Motorway (Junctions 3 to 12) (Smart Motorway) Development Consent Order 2016

Acoustic barriers

22.—(1) No part of the authorised development is to commence until details of a scheme to install or replace acoustic barriers in the locations shown on the environmental masterplan (Application Document Reference No. 7.4, Annex A) contained within the environmental statement has been submitted to and approved by the Secretary of State, following consultation with the relevant planning authority.

(2) The acoustic barriers installed in accordance with the scheme approved in sub-paragraph (1) must—

(a) match adjacent retained acoustic barriers so far as possible; and

(b) be compliant with any engineering requirements governing the form of acoustic barriers which may be installed.

(3) Where the barriers as shown on the environmental masterplan are found not to be fit for purpose as acoustic barriers of equivalent standard to the requirements for acoustic barriers set out in the Specification for Highway Works CI.2504, or as amended, whether by reason of—

(a) their state of repair; or

(b) their original design,

the scheme referred to in sub-paragraph (1) is to provide for their removal and replacement with acoustic barriers consistent with the requirements for acoustic barriers set out in the Specification for Highway Works CI.2504, or as amended.

(4) The scheme approved under sub-paragraph (1) must be implemented before operation of the authorised development commences and maintained in accordance with the details of the approved scheme, unless the Secretary of State agrees, following consultation with the relevant planning authority, that any acoustic barrier comprised in the approved scheme no longer needs to be maintained.