Mayors slam lack of funds for noise barriers

Mayors from Gladsaxe, Hvidovre, and Brøndby criticize the uneven distribution of a three-billion-kroner fund allocated by the Danish Parliament to reduce noise pollution. Despite being the most noise-afflicted municipalities, they received no funding for noise barriers along roads. Gladsaxe Mayor Trine Græse (S) expresses disappointment for not getting any of the funds, even though her municipality is the most affected, with 8,119 homes facing traffic noise above the 58-decibel limit. Hvidovre and Brøndby face similar problems with 7,924 and 4,789 homes affected respectively. They argue that the allocation criteria are not transparent and suggest that political considerations may influence the decisions on fund distribution. Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen (V) acknowledges that political interests play a role, but insists that decisions are based on objective criteria provided by the Road Directorate.