Sadiq Khan Launches Campaign to Curb Loud Music on Transport

Mayor Sadiq Khan has initiated a new campaign aimed at reducing noise pollution on London’s public transport systems by encouraging passengers to use headphones while listening to music. This campaign, which is part of Transport for London’s (TfL) broader Travel Kind initiative, will see posters installed on the Elizabeth line beginning on October 3, 2023. The messages will remind commuters not to play audio loudly or engage in speakerphone conversations, as such behaviour can disrupt fellow passengers.

The campaign will expand to cover London’s buses, the Docklands Light Railway, and both the Overground and Underground networks. These measures respond to growing political pressure to address the issue of disruptive noise in public transport settings. Recently, both the Liberal Democrats and the Conservative Party have called on government officials to take action against the playing of loud music.

Seb Dance, the deputy mayor of London for transport, highlighted the importance of consideration among commuters. He stated, “The vast majority of Londoners use headphones when travelling on public transport in the capital, but the small majority who play music or videos out loud can be a real nuisance to other passengers and directly disturb their journeys.” He expressed that the campaign aims to foster a more pleasant travel experience for everyone.

In addition to promoting headphone use, a second phase of the campaign will encourage passengers to remain attentive and aware of those around them, particularly those in need of a seat. This aligns with previous efforts under the Travel Kind campaign, which has included messaging about vigilance against sexual harassment and promoting the use of space within Tube carriages.

The timing of this campaign follows calls from the Conservative Party, which advocates for stricter enforcement of regulations prohibiting loud music on public transport. Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden remarked that commuters should not have to “endure somebody else’s choice of crap music.” This reflects a growing sentiment among political leaders that noise pollution on public transport is a significant concern.

The Liberal Democrats have also been vocal about this issue, proposing fines of up to £1,000 for those who do not comply with the headphone guideline. Paul Kohler, the party’s transport spokesperson and Wimbledon MP, stated, “I’m pleased Transport for London are listening to the Liberal Democrats. We’ve been campaigning on this issue for a number of months and I’m glad TfL and others are finally paying attention to our campaign.”

Kohler emphasized that playing music and videos aloud can significantly impact the experiences of other passengers. He categorized such behaviour as often thoughtless or even intimidating, insisting that it is unacceptable. He called for the government to implement tougher measures, including fixed penalty notices for offenders.

The introduction of this campaign signals a proactive approach by London authorities to enhance the commuter experience by fostering mutual respect among passengers. As Londoners navigate their daily journeys, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to quieter, more considerate travel across the city’s extensive public transport network.