Noise maps represent environmental noise levels, how they vary by geographical location, and are used for communicating information on environmental noise to the public. As such they are a potential quality of life indicator for those living in areas where noise pollution could be a detrimental factor. However this potential is not currently being fully exploited by noise maps produced by European Union member states, which are based on road traffic, rail, industry, and airport data and environmental variables rather than actual recordings of environmental noise at a given location. The aim of this research is to create an interactive audio tool using 3D environmental noise maps based on binaural recordings.

This has the potential to communicate more meaningful information on environmental noise to the public in that it will allow them to experience the noise levels present in a particular location. Another benefit of this approach is the potential to examine how subjectively annoying or disturbing the noise is to the listener by building a measure of human perception into the model. Therefore this research aims to create more sophisticated environmental sound maps which communicate both location-specific noise information, and the subjective effect of noise upon the listener.

This map data shows the number of domestic noise complaints received at the call centre within Glasgow City council. Domestic noise complaints as reflected in the dataset include: Amplified Music, Amplified TV, Animals (dog barking etc), DIY, Musical Instruments and noise generated as a result of Voices, Banging, Football etc. The figures represent the number of complaints received on a monthly basis between June to October 2014.

(data.glasgow.gov.uk, 2015).

Crowdsourced Soundscapes

This map containes user-submitted soundscapes from the Think About Sound mobile phone application and binaurally recorded soundscapes sourced by the research team. These soundscapes also contain a visual panorama for a more immersive map experience. Click the image opposite to open the map.


Non-Domestic Noise Complaints

This map allows you to view the number of non-domestic noise complaints and type of complaint made to Glasgow City Council per postcode. The figures represent the number of complaints received on a monthly basis between June to October 2014. Click on the image opposite to open the map.

If you have any feedback regarding the website of you would like to suggest a local area (within Glasgow) that you would like to add to the map then please use the form below to get in touch. We will get back to you as soon as possible.