Cologne reduces noise: 30 km/h on six new streets from now on!

The city of Cologne is urgently taking measures to reduce traffic noise. In August 2023, a speed limit of 30 was introduced on Luxemburger Straße, and now a further six streets in the city center as well as in Deutz, Nippes, Lindenthal and Rodenkirchen are on the list in order to improve traffic safety and quality of life for residents. In a recent announcement it was announced that Lindenstrasse, Siegburger Strasse, Bergstrasse, Merheimer Strasse, Gleueler Strasse and Weiße Strasse will also receive a 30 km/h speed limit. This new regulation was made easier by an update to the Road Traffic Act, as ksta.de reports.

These measures are a direct response to complaints from residents who complained about the unbearable traffic noise and called on the city to finally take action. The Cologne Administrative Court ruled that this noise was unacceptable for the residents and called for appropriate measures. Noise reports that have been available since the summer of 2023 and demonstrated health risks from noise have strengthened the court in its decision.

Implementation of the new regulations

The city of Cologne accepts the court decisions and plans to introduce the new 30 km/h zones without appeal. Traffic department head Ascan Egerer emphasizes that the implementation of the new traffic signs depends on the weather and will be prepared in the near future. Particular attention is paid to Luxemburger Straße, where the 30 km/h speed limit is still ignored by many drivers. Recently, increased controls were announced.

The head of the traffic department is also showing initiative: There are also plans to convert a car lane into a bicycle lane in order to increase the safety of cyclists. This could reduce pressure on road traffic while promoting environmentally friendly mobility. The citizens' initiative “Livable Lux” is even calling for the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit across the board in Cologne and criticizing the city for its delayed noise protection measures.

Criticism and future outlook

However, there are voices who express doubts about the effectiveness of 30 km/h speed limit in reducing noise. ADAC traffic experts may not see the measures as the only solution to the problem. In comparison, residents on noisy streets in Düsseldorf receive financial support for noise protection measures, which is also being discussed as a possible approach for Cologne.

In summary, it can be said that Cologne is gradually working towards a quieter and more livable city. The new 30 km/h zones are an important first step in addressing ongoing noise problems. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop and whether the measures will be accepted and adhered to by the residents.