Noisy sirens are spoiling our tranquil haven

Published: 2:52 PM September 5, 2007 Updated: 9:55 AM February 20, 2021

I am far from alone in often being disturbed (in both senses of the word) by screaming police vehicles or ambulances chasing through Highgate village and destroying its precious peace and tranquility. On Sunday August 12 at about 8.15pm I was on Southwo

I am far from alone in often being disturbed (in both senses of the word) by screaming police vehicles or ambulances chasing through Highgate village and destroying its precious peace and tranquility.

On Sunday August 12 at about 8.15pm I was on Southwood Lane talking with two neighbours when we all had to stop talking because a police car came screaming past. It was not driven as though it was part of a desperate chase. There was no other vehicle visible on Southwood Lane.

We all find this kind of extreme noise pollution common, often totally unjustified, and increasing in frequency and volume. I have witnessed the same phenomenon at 4.30am, again with empty streets - I am often up early in our front garden.

As for ambulances, I doubt whether anyone has researched the adverse effect on ill occupants of lying beneath the screaming sirens. Certainly blood pressures all round will be driven up. How many patients does that tip over the edge?

You may also want to watch:

I should be interested to learn what other readers think and whether anyone has any good suggestions for stopping this particularly unnecessary kind of 'official anti-social behaviour'. Flashing lights are more than enough in 99 per cent of cases.

Also, perhaps the police and ambulance sevices could comment.